Church life is structured based on the willingness of each member to give themselves to the growth of the church. In this effort and love, the church can finally carry out its function to bring love and peace to the world. This awareness was also built by Nehemiah in the early days of their return to Jerusalem.
This awareness is manifested in the provision to give the first fruits of the fields and livestock. Giving the first fruits of the fields and livestock is an extraordinary act of faith. Why? They did not yet know whether the land would be fertile again or whether their animals would give birth again. However, they still gave the first fruits to God. All of this is based on a promise, "We will not forsake the house of our God." (verse 39). They have the awareness to maintain the spiritual life of the community and understand that the existence of the house of God is the center of their spiritual identity.
Moving on to this provision, we can actually draw its meaning to life today. Giving offerings is a sign of our involvement in the works of God. So every believer should have a strong awareness of this.
The motivation behind giving and offering is not the thought of immediate material rewards. Rather, offering is an invitation to experience God’s grace in a broader sense peace, joy, and divine providence that often goes beyond what can be quantified. Nehemiah records that the Jews of that time volunteered to take turns bringing firewood to the Temple, ensuring that God’s work was not hindered. This teaches us that offering ourselves to God is not a burden, but an opportunity to show our love for Him.
We are invited to consider, are we giving with a sincere heart or just out of obligation? God does not need our giving, but He wants to see a joyful heart in giving. Giving is not just about our possessions, but also about a heart that submits to and trusts in God. In giving, we put God first, demonstrate our faith, and remember that everything we have comes from Him. In doing so, we not only physically care for God’s house, but also keep our hearts attached to Him.
