For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. – John 3:16 (KJV)
Life can be very unpredictable and demanding, it often requires us to make decisions while thinking on our feet. These decisions are made giving more credence to what we acknowledge as important. As Christians, we are admonished to put God first in our lives, that is, to make him the centre. The centre is also known as the pivot which in essence is a person or thing on which something or someone depends.
Our daily existence entails relying on each other’s gifting, talents and abilities to help us achieve our dreams and aspirations. While this is necessary, to a greater extent we need to depend upon our Creator to help us fulfil the purpose for which He created us. For instance, when a product is created it is never without instructions or a manual. In order for a user to benefit in an efficient and effective way from that invention he/she must carefully adhere to its accompanying instructions/manual. For us, this tool is the Bible/God’s Word.
Let’s look at an instruction that can be deemed ‘top priority’:
- “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” – Matthew 6:33 (KJV).
Is this Scripture applicable to this fast-paced materialistic generation, or was God only talking to the people of ancient times? As a reminder, Hebrews 13:8 (KJV) says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and today, and forever.”
It is very easy to make our top priority societal trends and practices where people are glorifying things such as achievements, money, fame, ‘likes’ and ‘followers’ instead of God and His kingdom. This is not to condemn or kill one’s drive for success or to encourage laziness but to caution us to set our priorities in order. This is, God first in our lives, desire good things but chase after Him. Anything we put before God, whether tangible or intangible, is an idol – Exodus 20:3.
Don’t minimise the importance of God’s help in our endeavours, it results in failure and unfulfilled dreams – Isaiah 26:3 (KJV). However, on the other hand, if we first and foremost solicit God’s help and direction we are guaranteed success and fulfilment – Matthew 7:21.
Keep God at the centre of your life, lest you lose your balance.
Read: Matthew 6:24; 1 Corinthians 10:14
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 142; Revelation 4; Esther 6; Esther 7; Esther 8