Scripture:
So that we would be a kind of first fruits of His creatures [a prime example of what He created to be set apart to Himself - sanctified, made holy for His divine purposes]. James 1:18b AMP
In the Bible, especially in the Old Testament, we read clear instructions about bringing first fruits to God. We read how the animals selected are to be set apart from the rest of the herd, should be without blemish or defect and marked as God's property. In Proverbs, we're advised to return our first fruits to God so he will release his blessings upon us and the rest of our harvest or earnings. God places a premium on first fruits as it honours him. James the Apostle is telling us that God specifically chose us to be His first fruits. Wow! Meaning he has set us apart, consecrated us to Himself; we're to be ministering to God, doing his will and conduct his business here on earth. That's why Peter calls us a Royal Priesthood. Not only has he separated us from the rest of the world for himself, but then, as we give ourselves willingly to him, he blesses everything else about us and around us. We are special to him. If we are God's first fruits, then we must live lives that are wholly consecrated to him and his service. We must separate ourselves from the filth around us; we must live holy and pure lives.
Let's pray: Father, you ask us to be holy just as you are holy. Wash us, consecrate us and make us worthy vessels of honour unto you. Amen
