Give the Lord your first fruits.

The biblical principle of first fruits is often associated with money management teachings. And while it certainly can and should be, honoring the Lord with first fruits is about all aspects of our lives. We should honor Him with the first fruits of our time, talent, and treasure. What does the principle of first fruits have to do with battling exhaustion? Everything! When we give of the first fruits of everything we have unto the Lord, He blesses the remainder. This is why there can be seasons in our lives when we have an exponential number of items on our to-do list, and somehow, we navigate it with ease, while other times, the same to-do list can feel exhausting and overwhelming, as if we are sojourning through quicksand, making little headway.

When the Lord's blessings are upon a thing, there is an ease to its accomplishment. This is true of our parenting, time, money, friendships, etc. Here are some areas to consider giving of the first fruits of your life:

1. Time. All of us have equal amounts of time daily. What we do with our time matters. The first fruits of our day should be given to the Lord. To be clear, this isn't about some religious track record of checking boxes to ensure you are "good with God ."We aren't trying to earn His love. We are already loved! However, the sacrifice of time given as the first fruit of each day creates tremendous blessing. When we get up thirty minutes sooner (even when exhausted from a crying baby or second job), there is a blessing in that sacrifice. The Lord meets us there. He speaks to His children. He ministers to peace to what could seem like a chaotic day or season. He whispers instructions through His Word. The Lord very often adds time to a day that was surrendered to Him.
2. Finances. The Bible says that God loves a cheerful giver. He will generously provide all you need as you surrender your finances to Him. As you sow into His kingdom, follow His principles, and steward what is in your hand well, He will provide all you need. There is great comfort in putting your trust in the hands of the One who is faithful, tested, and true. Many single moms are overwhelmed and exhausted because the fruits of their finances have not been surrendered to the Great Provider.
3. Children. Dedicate your children back to the Lord. Surrender them fully, not partially. Many mothers (single or not) are exhausted from attempting to control their children, navigating their outcomes for them, and hoping to keep them from experiencing consequences. Our children are a precious gift from God. They are His. Like all else in our lives, we are simply stewards. The Lord has trusted you and given you the authority as their mother to raise them in the way that they should go. God loves them more than you could ever imagine. Give them back to God, and allow Him to be in control! Give Him reign to speak to them, teach them, and administer wisdom to you as you parent them. Peace comes in the surrender.
4. Talents. We are wonderfully and uniquely made. The Lord has given us the skills, talents, and imagination to accomplish much for His glory. We are made to worship Him with our whole being. What talents do you have that might glorify the Lord when surrendered to Him? Are there things you are really good at that you also enjoy doing that may be a blessing to your church, friends, or community? There is great rest in giving of the things we were created to do. For example, for those talented with singing abilities, it is not a burden to minister to others in song. It is actually quite fulfilling. What talents has the Lord given you that may bring joy to you and others to offer up for His glory?

Points to Ponder:

• What does your quiet time with the Lord look like currently? Are you distracted, finding your focus split? Do you miss out on the opportunity of His presence and instruction because you wait until you have ‘time’?
• Are you faithfully and cheerfully surrendering the first fruits of your time, talent, children, and treasure to the Lord? Why or why not?