Put God First: A Journey to Prioritizing the Divine
Putting God first is a fundamental principle for believers. Life often pulls us in many directions—career, family, friends, hobbies—but amid all these, one central question arises: where does God fit into all of this? Putting God first is a concept that resonates deeply within the hearts of many, yet it is often misunderstood or overlooked in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But what does it truly mean to prioritize God in our lives and how can it transform your life? How can we practically implement this principle in our daily routines? In this article, we’ll explore the profound significance of prioritizing God in your life, guided by biblical teachings and practical advice.
What Does It Mean to Put God First?
Put God first is a conscious decision to place divine guidance and love at the center of our lives. It’s about acknowledging God’s sovereignty and allowing His will to shape our choices, actions, and attitudes. It’s more than just a religious act; it’s a lifestyle characterized by trust, obedience, and worship. It’s recognizing that God is the source of life, love, and hope. It’s understanding that our desires and dreams are fulfilled in His purpose. It’s choosing to seek His wisdom over worldly counsel and His peace over personal ambitions.
When you put God first, you’re aligning your life with His divine purpose, ensuring that His love and wisdom guide every step you take. Biblically, putting God first is seen as a fundamental principle of faith. It’s about recognizing that without God, nothing else truly holds meaning. He is the foundation upon which all other aspects of life should be built.
Why Is Putting God First Important?
Spiritually, Putting God First is the foundation of a deep and meaningful relationship with God. It’s an acknowledgment of His sovereignty and love. When you prioritize God, you open your life to His blessings and guidance, which leads to a more fulfilled and peaceful existence.
On a personal level, putting God first helps in cultivating a sense of purpose and direction. It brings clarity in decision-making and strengthens your resolve in facing life’s challenges. Relationships, too, flourish when God is at the center, as His teachings promote love, patience, and understanding.
Biblical References to Putting God First
While the exact phrase “put God first” might not appear verbatim in the Bible, the essence of this principle is prevalent throughout Scripture. The Bible is replete with verses that emphasize the need to put God first. Two key passages stand out:
- Matthew 6:33: “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” This verse clearly instructs believers to prioritize their relationship with God over worldly pursuits. It promises that when we focus on God’s plan, our needs will be met.
- Proverbs 3:6: “In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths”. This verse emphasizes the importance of recognizing God in all your endeavors, promising divine guidance and direction.
These verses, among others, serve as a blueprint for a life that honors and prioritizes God.
How to Put God First in Your Daily Life
Incorporating God into your daily routine might seem daunting at first, but it can be achieved through consistent, small actions. Start your day with prayer, asking God to guide you through the challenges ahead. Dedicate time to read and meditate on His Word, allowing the Bible to shape your thoughts and decisions.
It’s also crucial to make space for worship, whether in a church setting or through personal devotion. Worship is not just about singing hymns; it’s about expressing your love and reverence for God through your actions and choices.
Ways to Put God First
Putting God first is a daily commitment. Offer your life as a living sacrifice to God out of gratitude for His mercy. Be attentive to His guidance and promptings in your daily life. Prioritize selflessness over seeking praise or attention from people.
There are several practical ways to ensure God remains the focal point of your life:
1. Start Your Day with God:
- Morning Devotion: Begin your day with prayer, meditation and Bible study to align your heart and mind with God’s will. Meditation allows you to reflect on His Word and internalize His teachings.
- Gratitude Journaling: Obey God’s commands and seek to glorify Him in all you do. Express thanks for God’s blessings and provision.
2. Seek God’s Guidance:
- Prayer: Daily prayer is your direct line of communication with God. Through prayer, you express your dependence on Him and seek His guidance. Communicate openly with God throughout the day, seeking His wisdom and direction.
- Bible Study: The Bible is God’s letter to humanity. Regular reading and study deepen your understanding of His will and help you apply His teachings to your life. Regularly immerse yourself in God’s Word to deepen your understanding.
3. Prioritize Worship:
- Church Attendance: Being part of a faith community is essential. It provides support, accountability, and the opportunity to grow spiritually through collective worship and service. Participate in corporate worship to connect with the community.
- Music and Praise: Express your love for God through music and singing.
4. Serve Others:
- Volunteer: Jesus emphasized love and service to others. By helping those in need, you’re not only putting God’s teachings into practice but also placing His values above your own desires. Give back to your community in ways that reflect God’s love.
5. Manage Your Time Wisely:
- Time Management: Balance your responsibilities while making time for spiritual growth.
- Digital Detox: Take breaks from technology to focus on your relationship with God.
6. Cultivate Gratitude:
- Mindfulness: Practice gratitude throughout the day, recognizing God’s blessings.
- Journaling: Record your thankful moments to reinforce a positive mindset.
7. Surround Yourself with Faith:
- Christian Community: Engage with other believers to grow spiritually and encourage one another. Build relationships with like-minded individuals.
- Mentorship: Seek guidance from spiritual mentors.
Remember, putting God first isn’t just about attending church; it’s about glorifying Him in all aspects of life. Seek to live close to Him, delighting in His presence, and allowing Him to direct your steps. May your journey of putting God first be filled with joy, purpose, and fulfillment!
Overcoming Challenges
Despite our best intentions, it’s easy to get distracted by the demands of daily life. Work, relationships, and personal ambitions can often take precedence, making it challenging to keep God at the forefront.
To overcome these challenges, it’s important to regularly assess your priorities. Ask yourself: What am I putting first in my life right now? If the answer isn’t God, it’s time to realign your focus. Accountability partners, such as friends or family members who share your faith, can also provide encouragement and support.
Putting God first isn’t always easy. There will be obstacles and setbacks. Here’s how to overcome them:
- Persistence: Stay committed to your faith even when faced with challenges.
- Accountability: Share your journey with a trusted friend or mentor.
- Forgiveness: Forgive yourself for mistakes and keep moving forward.
- Seek Support: Join a support group or find a faith-based community.
The Benefits of Putting God First
When you make a conscious effort to put God first, the benefits are manifold. Discovering God’s plan for your life provides a sense of purpose and drawing strength from God equips you to face life’s obstacles.
- Inner Peace and Spiritual Growth: Prioritizing God brings leads to tranquility and contentment that transcends understanding. It also fosters spiritual growth as you continually seek His presence.
- Improved Relationships: A God-centered life promotes healthier relationships. When you love others as God loves you, your relationships are enriched with patience, kindness, and understanding. This involves showing love, forgiveness, and understanding, mirroring the way God interacts with us. Building relationships on a foundation of faith fosters deeper connections.
- Eternal Rewards and Spiritual Blessings: The Bible promises eternal rewards for those who live a life pleasing to God. By putting Him first, you are storing up treasures in heaven. Experiencing God’s blessings leads to a fulfilling and prosperous life.
Practical Tips for Staying Consistent
Staying consistent in putting God first requires commitment and intentionality. Here are some tips:
- Set a daily time for prayer and Bible reading: Consistency is key in building a strong relationship with God.
- Surround yourself with a faith community: Being around others who share your values helps keep you accountable and motivated.
- Reflect regularly on your priorities: Regularly assess whether your actions align with your goal of putting God first.
“Putting God First: How to Make God the #1 Priority in Every Area of Your Life” by Brittany Ann
This book provides practical tips for making God your top priority in various aspects of life, including marriage, parenting, friendships, and finances.
Feel free to explore these resources to deepen your understanding of putting God first!
Conclusion
Putting God first is a transformative journey that leads to a richer, more fulfilling life. It’s about making a conscious choice to prioritize God in every aspect of your existence. By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you’ll experience the profound impact of placing God at the center of your world.
Remember, it’s not about perfection but about progress. Each step you take brings you closer to a deeper relationship with God. Embrace the journey, and let your faith shine brightly.
FAQs on Put God First
1. What does it mean to put God first?
Putting God first means prioritizing your relationship with Him above all else, seeking His guidance in every aspect of your life.
2. Which verse in the Bible says “put God first”?
Matthew 6:33 is a key verse that emphasizes the importance of seeking God’s kingdom first.
3. How can I start putting God first in my life?
Start by dedicating time each day to prayer, Bible study, and worship. Gradually, incorporate God’s teachings into your daily decisions and actions.
4. What are some challenges in putting God first?
Common challenges include distractions from daily responsibilities, personal ambitions, and societal pressures. Overcoming these requires intentionality and support from a faith community.
5. How does putting God first benefit my life?
Putting God first brings inner peace, spiritual growth, improved relationships, and eternal rewards.