First Fruits

The concept of First Fruits is rooted in biblical times (Deuteronomy 26:9-11) when people lived in an agrarian society. Harvest time was significant because that was when the hard work the farmers had poured into their crops all year began to pay off. They were literally reaping what they sowed. God called his people to bring the first yield—the first fruits—from their harvest to him as an offering. This was to demonstrate the Israelites’ obedience and reverence for God. It also showed that they trusted God to provide enough crops to feed their family throughout the year.

We continue to practice the principles of First Fruits today although we are not harvesting crops. We see that this offering is to be given to the Lord in thanksgiving for the generous and manifold blessings that God has so graciously given to us. Unlike with tithing, there is no specific amount required for First Fruits. This giving is an act of faith that allows us to show God that we believe he will meet all of our needs and provide above and beyond what we could ever imagine. Romans 11:16 states that “if the first portion offered as the first fruit is holy, so is the whole batch; and if the root is holy, so are the branches.” When you offer the portion, God’s anointing will get on the whole batch and rebuke the devourer for your sake. Remember, the return is not always financial. Some may be seeking supernatural healing, while others may be requiring deliverance for their children. Whatever the need, God will honor the First Fruits sacrifice and show up in a mighty way. The bible says, “Give and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full measure, pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine your harvest.” (Luke 6:38).

2023 was a great year, but we still saw many challenges faced by our community and our nation. Through God's grace and mercy, we are still standing and were able to accomplish much throughout the last year. God blessed our church to be able to assist the community with supplemental food through our food pantry, Thanksgiving and Christmas Food Boxes, to provide college scholarships to graduating high school seniors, and more. In keeping with our mission, we will continue to be a blessing to the community until all the families of the earth are blessed.

As this new season begins, please prayerfully consider giving a special First Fruit Offering. Your special gift will help us to continue to transform lives throughout the community at large. Your prayers, love, and financial support continue to allow Virtuous New Life Ministries to meet the needs of many. This is the time to pledge your First Fruits offering. Take this opportunity to give God the First Fruits of your harvest. We ask that you help us celebrate the goodness of God by pledging a recommended First Fruit Offering equivalent to one week’s gross salary. If you are unable to give the recommended First Fruits Offering, please give a special sacrificial offering, over and above your normal tithe and offering.

On Sunday, April 21st, Virtuous New Life Ministries will be celebrating First Fruits, where we will announce the total amount of all pledges received and the amount collected to date. Payments can be made via Cash APP, Venmo, or on our website vnlministries.org/giving and select the 'First Fruits' Fund. We ask that all commitments be honored as soon as possible on or before April 21st with all payments being completed no later than June 30, 2024.

We are praying with you as you join us in presenting our best to the Lord, just as God has given us his very best in his Son Jesus Christ. We are standing in faith for a miraculous return on our giving. Watch God Work in this season.

Peace & Blessings,

Pastor Douglas & Lady Emma Blacknall

VIRTUOUS NEW LIFE MINISTRIES

Address: 127 Market Street, Brookville, OH 45309

Mailing address: P.O. Box 49467

(937) 388-5684 • vnlministries@gmail.com