Firstfruits: Giving God Our BestSýnishorn

Think About It

1. What has God done for you in the past that has resulted in “fruit” you enjoy today?
2. It has been said that if everyone gave just 1 percent of their income to charity, we could end poverty and hunger. What one thing can you do to help raise awareness about giving and encourage others to give?
3. How do you feel when you receive a gift? How do you feel when you give a gift? Which feeling is more fulfilling in the long run?
4. What does it mean to give God your very best? How can you encourage others in your family, at work, or at your church to do the same?
5. What would you consider the “firstfruits” of your life? How can you serve God with the gifts that He has blessed you with?
6. Read Exodus 24:3, Israel’s stirring commitment to obeying God’s Word. In what ways does your faith community commit itself to obeying God’s Word today? What about you personally?

Apply It

1. VOLUNTEER YOUR TIME AND TALENTS FOR GOD’S PURPOSES. Bake food for the hungry, keep the lonely company, offer a compassionate ear to the hurting, or engage in any activity that helps others through the talents God has given to you.
2. CONTRIBUTE TO A CHARITY OF YOUR CHOICE. When we give back to God with the blessings He has given us, we not only facilitate good in the world, but express our gratitude in action, not just in words.
3. SERVE GOD WITH EXCELLENCE. Whether you are providing hospitality for guests, using your talents for others, or giving a gift to an organization, do so with the highest standards possible—spare nothing and go all out.
4. RECOGNIZE ALL THAT GOD HAS DONE FOR YOU BY TELLING OTHERS ABOUT HIS WORK IN YOUR LIFE—BOTH IN THE PAST AND IN THE PRESENT. Anticipate God’s goodness in the future.
5. SET ASIDE TIME FOR GOD. Designate a day or a weekend for studying the Word of God. Dedicate that time for learning, growing, and coming closer to God through His Word.
6. COMMIT TO SPENDING THE FIRST 10 MINUTES OF EVERY DAY IN GOD’S WORD. Try it for a week and journal how the practice has impacted your day, your attitude, and your interactions with others.

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