Nehemiah 10:1-39
Nehemiah 10 served as a reminder for me that it's good to stop and assess our attitudes, actions and work for the Lord because over time, they can start to slide. The idea of first fruits, giving our best up front to God, was a key point in this passage. I found that interesting because just last week I was thinking about this very topic and I actually took some time to look over and consider how I've been doing in that "first fruits" category. My conclusion was that my desire was definitely to give God my first fruits. That's good. But in reality, when I get crazy busy and distracted, there are times when God gets less than my best. That's not good.
So what about you? How are you doing in the "first fruits" area? What are some things we can do to stay on track when it comes to God getting our best all the time? Tami W.
When we as believers are not careful to prioritize our daily time with the Lord, He becomes distant in our present. Over time,
we find that our relationship with Him becomes foggy,dim,without color/vibrancy,and lifeless in the power of the Spirit's guidance and promptings. When this happens,the "first fruits" (of all kinds) that
should be the Lord's are used to honor ourselves,others, and other things.When the Lord fades from our present, other people and things take His place of honor in our life.
Practically speaking, if we are careful to give Him the "first fruits"
of morning time, He will help us to live in ways that will honor Him in all areas. I believe, it all rises and falls on our relationship with Him.
Tami, like you sometimes I do not give my best to God. I find however that I am reminded quite often that I have not given my best by some story in the word.My solution is to keep reading the word because there are enough stories and events in the bible to make our walk with God right.
"We will not neglect the house of our God." v. 39. That sumed it up for me. We must consciously commit not to neglect "the house of God" or before we know it, the business of life has taken over the "first fruits" of our time, thoughts and resources.
This was SO what I needed to hear today!!!!
(Hebrews 4:12) For the Word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double edged sword. It penetrates even to dividing souls and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart!
We have a God who can see, hear, judge all we are. I want to stay in His Word for my life line. There is no other but Jesus and His Righteousness. God help me when I slip to get back on track quick.