The Torah teaches a profound truth about life and priorities: When the God of Creation is first, everything comes into order. This principle of “first” is woven into the fabric of Scripture. It’s not just about financial giving but about aligning every aspect of our lives under God’s divine order. Let’s explore how this powerful principle can transform your life.
In Exodus 13:2, God declares, “Sanctify unto Me all the first-born…it is Mine.” (JPS 1917, Exodus 13:2). The language here is emphatic—God isn’t requesting but claiming ownership of the firstborn. Why? Because God must always be first.
This principle extends beyond ancient sacrifices. It applies to our resources, time, and hearts. When we give God the first of our finances—the first 10%—we align ourselves with His order. And though life may still bring challenges, wouldn’t you rather face them with everything in order than in chaos?
The Torah provides a clear pattern for dealing with the firstborn. If the firstborn is clean, it must be sacrificed. If it is unclean, it must be redeemed with the sacrifice of a clean animal (Exodus 13:12-13).
When it comes to finances, this principle teaches us that the first portion redeems the rest. If we withhold the first and offer leftovers, we are missing the blessing. God doesn’t want our scraps; He requires our faith. Faith is what enacts the blessing—not merely the act of giving.
Proverbs 3:9-10 reinforces this principle: “Honour the LORD with thy substance, And with the first-fruits of all thine increase; So shall thy barns be filled with plenty…” (JPS 1917, Proverbs 3:9-10). God’s blessings flow when we prioritize Him.
When Israel entered the Promised Land, God instructed them to bring all the silver and gold from Jericho into His House. Why? Jericho was the first city they conquered. By giving the first to God, the rest of the Land was redeemed.
This principle challenges us today. Where does the first portion of your increase go? To your mortgage company? To savings? Or to God? Only God has the power to bless the rest.
Leviticus 27:30 reminds us, “And all the tithe of the land…is the LORD’S; it is holy unto the LORD.” (JPS 1917, Leviticus 27:30). Tithing is not just a financial transaction—it’s a reflection of who is first in your life. God only accepts the first, not leftovers. Malachi 1:6-14 is a sobering reminder that offering less than our best dishonors Him.
Consider this: If God reviewed your bank account, would it show He’s first?
The story of King Solomon illustrates the blessings of extravagant giving. On the day of his inauguration, Solomon offered not one bull, as tradition required, but 1,000 burnt offerings. That night, God appeared to Solomon, saying, “Ask! What shall I give you?” God trusted Solomon because Solomon demonstrated a heart of generosity.
God’s blessings extend beyond finances. He desires to bless your family, health, relationships, and endeavors. But He is looking for a heart fully devoted to Him—a heart that gives not out of obligation but out of joy.
In Exodus 13:14-15, God commands the Children of Israel to teach their children about the principle of the first. Likewise, you can teach your children about the principle of the first, telling them, “Everything we have is because of Him, so we gladly give Him the first.”
This principle isn’t just about finances; it’s about passing down a legacy of faith. It’s about showing the next generation that God is our provider and sustainer.
The Torah principles of the first—offering the firstborn, the first fruits, and the tithe—are more than ancient traditions. They are an invitation to trust God with your whole heart. When we put Him first, everything else comes into order.
Take a moment to examine your priorities. Where does God rank in your life? If you struggle to put Him first, remember this: He loved you first. Let this truth inspire you to joyfully give God the first and best of all you have.
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