The Priority Struggle
Matthew 6:31-34
In every person’s life, there is one central issue around which everything else revolves. Perhaps it is money, or family, or the quest for power. For believers, however, the first priority should be to seek God’s kingdom and His righteousness. (v. 33) That means we obediently submit ourselves to His rule. People sometimes say, “I’ve made Jesus a part of my life” but that is not enough. Jesus is life for His followers. We have no purpose or meaning without Him.
When we honestly think about our priorities, we may find that our family, finances, or business is in first place. It’s true that the Scriptures tell us to care for our and to work well. But to put those things before God is idolatry.
Our top priority is where we invest our time and money. The focus of our life should be to grow in our intimate relationship with the Lord so that obedience is a natural expression. Every decision must be sifted through a godly “grid.” But to seek God’s will requires perseverance. Those who simply take life as it comes will miss out on an awesome relationship with Jesus Christ.
Through personal prayer and Bible study, we learn to discern God’s will as we become more Christlike. Then, should we ever veer off course from God, we quickly come back to Him. One taste of an intimate relationship with God makes everything else fade into the background. Look at your calendar and ask yourself an honest question: What is my priority in life? If it is Jesus, it will be evident.
Daily Devotions with Dr. Charles Stanlley, InTouch Ministries