Ituah Ighodalo, the senior pastor of Trinity House Church, emphasizes that church [/b]leaders should receive the first salary of any member, revealing this during an interview with PUNCH, addressing topics such as tithes, harvests, and the significance of first fruits in one's labor.
In his discussion, Pastor Ighodalo defines the first fruit as the initial offering yielded when embarking on a new venture or during the harvest year. He underscores that this initial harvest is intended for the pastors of the church. According to him, failure to offer this first fruit to the church may lead to losing subsequent harvests and experiencing ongoing struggles.
Pastor Ighodalo elaborates on the biblical context, referring to Exodus chapter 23 verse 16, highlighting the traditional practice of presenting the first set of harvest, whether it be corn, yam, barley, or wheat, as an offering to the Lord. This act serves as gratitude and acknowledgment for the provision of a fruitful yield.
He emphasizes the importance of putting God first in these offerings, stating that it ensures the protection and abundance of the remaining harvest. Failure to give the first fruit, according to Pastor Ighodalo, risks diminished subsequent harvests and potential losses in the quantum of the expected yield.
He concludes by asserting that those who neglect the practice of giving first fruit may find themselves struggling financially. Pastor Ighodalo draws a connection between earning money and keeping it, emphasizing the risks individuals face if they do not adhere to the principles of giving to God, citing potential spoilage or loss of earnings.
He highlights the covenant believers have with God, emphasizing the blessings that come without sorrow when one obeys God's principles, contrasting it with potential challenges faced by those who may not follow similar obligations in other pursuits.
