Scripture Union Daily Guide 19th February 2021 Today’s Message
TOPIC: Token of Worship
Opening Prayer: Oh Lord, fill me with the power of the Holy Ghost as I study your word.
Scripture: Deuteronomy 26:1-19
Question(s) for Reflection
• Is there any example for me to follow or not to follow? • Is there any command for me to obey?
Scripture Union Daily Guide 19th February 2021 Message
First fruit is a portion of our first harvest or income that we give to God as a token of worship and appreciation of His blessings (v.10). Observe the procedure (vs.2-4), and the reason for this offering (vs.5-9)? Like the Israelites, we were once in bondage to sin, but God in His infinite mercy saved us. So, we need to acknowledge Him with our lives and substance. (Eph. 1: 3 – 6; 1 Pet. 5: 9 – 10. Vs.12-15 is a repeat of Deuteronomy 14:28-29.
Apart from the first fruit, notice the demand in v.12 and to who they are to give this offering? It should be noted that though believers may not necessarily be under this law; tithe in particular preceded the law as Abraham gave his tithe to Melchizedek. This was after Moses and Nehemiah practised tithing. Also, God commanded it during the time of Malachi.
In the New Testament, Jesus Christ did not forbid it, but only condemned the wrong attitude of those who depend on it for their salvation or justification before God (Gen. 14: 20; Neh. 10: 35 – 38; 12: 44; Mal. 3: 6 – 12; Matt. 23: 23; Luke 18: 9 – 14). But the New Testament reminds us not to forget the poor and missionaries like Paul. Why not consider designating a substantial portion of your annual giving to Christian organizations and missions and to relief the poor, orphans and widows? God loves a cheerful giver (vs.10-11; cf., 2 Corinthians 9:7).
Our giving must be done willingly, without grudge. Read vs.13-15 again. What does this suggest as to how we should approach God in prayers? When our obedience is complete (including giving our token of worship), we receive blessings in return. For further reading: See 2 Corinthians 8:1-15 and chapter 9 for the basic principles of giving in New Testament.
Practice/Word Application
• So what: You can make v.17 your pledge today and claim God’s declaration in vs.18 &19
• Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?
Closing Prayer
• Help me, dear Lord, to live with the consciousness that all I have and am comes from you. • Ask the Lord to go ahead of you into the coming week and make your way smooth and safe.
Offer a prayer of faith in line with
• Ex. 7-8; Mark 16