We will bring the firstfruits of our land and of every fruit tree to the Lord’s house year by year. We will also bring the first born of our sons and our livestock, as prescribed by the law, and will bring the first born of our herds and flocks to the house of our God, to the priests who serve in our God’s house. Nehemiah 10:35-36 HCSB
Everything in this world belongs to God. As an act of obedience and reverence, God asked the people of Israel to bring the firstfruits of the land to the Lord’s house. They were to bring grains and fruits. These firstfruits were to be brought to the temple to be stored and used by the priests, Levites, and those who worked there.
Note that they were to also bring the first born of their sons and livestock. The sons were redeemed or bought back with a price. The livestock were to be used by the priests, Levites, and those who worked in the temple for food. This was a way for the people to return a portion of what God had given to them as an act of worship, but it also provided food for those who worked in the temple rather than them having to work the land or raise livestock.
Challenge: What are you bringing to the Lord? Everything you have belongs to God. Remember to bring a portion of what you have to the Lord’s house as an act of worship and obedience. God will bless you for your sacrificial offering.