First Fruit Giving
What is a first fruit?
It is the first result of something.
How did it work in the Bible?
In the Bible the first fruit was the first tribute that was given to God at the beginning of each yearly harvest (It is now normally practiced in January). This offering was taken to the temple in addition to tithe. One of the main principles of first fruits is a declaration from the individual stating that their dependence is not only on their work, but most importantly, on God.
What Benefits does it bring?
Both in Biblical times and today, the first fruits is a principle that brings prosperity in an overabundance to the individual that puts it into practice. When someone is faithful to God and puts Him first, all other things are added on.
How can I practice this?
This is a personal decision and is by no means an obligation!
- First: You have to open your heart to be obedient and to believe (have faith) in God’s provision.
- Second: You need to place your finances in order (Establish a budget), and if you are married you need to come into agreement with your spouse to make the necessary financial adjustments so that this giving can be possible.
- Third: (The action) Normally, you take the first part of your income of the year and give it completely to God. (Many people give their first check of the week, others their first bi-weekly check, and some give all checks earned the entire first month). This is completely your decision.
Note: Remember that if you receive additional income after your first fruit giving, your tithe on the additional income for that month is still an order. However, if you gave your entire month’s earnings there would be no tithe because you gave the full 100%.
What do I do if I didn’t prepare ahead of time, or the first check is already gone?
It’s never too late to give a first fruit if you didn’t know about the principle “on time”. It is impossible to practice something that you are unaware of. Begin immediately by making the necessary preparations to practice this giving, in order to ensure the supernatural provision you will see this year. Once you have learned about the principle of the first fruits and have put it into practice, begin to make it a yearly tradition, and plan ahead for the following years. Every year we receive testimonies of people that begin to practice the giving of their first fruits for the first time, and how they have seen the hand of God move in a supernatural way.
Is there a Biblical foundation that exists for this practice?
The Bible is full of examples of this practice!
Principal verses: