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Putting First Things First

     Most people become greatly concerned about the necessities of life. They worry about what they are going to eat, drink, and what they are going to wear. This has been true throughout the centuries regardless of the economy.

Jesus addressed this matter in Matthew 6:25-34. Within this context Jesus teaches us not to worry about all the things that the Gentiles seek. Instead of worrying Jesus taught, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33)

There are several reasons for us to seek first the kingdom of God. First, we do so because we seek to please God above all others. We recognize that God holds our very breath in His hands. Daniel stated this to King Belshazzar. He said, “…And you have praised the gods of silver and gold, bronze and iron, wood and stone, which do not see or hear or know; and the God who holds your breath in His hand and owns all your ways, you have not glorified.” (Daniel 5:23b)

We should desire to live our lives counter to King Belshazzar by acknowledging the great power and love of our God. Not only do we acknowledge that God holds our breath in His hand, but we also know that He is the only source of our eternal salvation. This great salvation only comes to us through His beloved Son, Jesus Christ. Peter stated, “…there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12b)

Second, we seek the kingdom of God first because we desire to please God above ourselves. This concept runs against the thinking of our culture. Most like to focus on what pleases themselves first. However, Jesus taught, “Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” (Mark 8:34)

The apostle Paul mentioned that the grace of God teaches us our priority in life. He said that God’s grace teaches, “…us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lust, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age.” (Titus 2:12) It is the grace of God that has shined the light upon our hearts leading us out of sin and into righteousness before God. It is for this reason that we seek the kingdom of God first by denying the sinful indulgences of the flesh and living holy lives before our God.

When we put first things first, God helps us through all our struggles. Jesus gave us this assurance in Matthew 6:33. King David wrote, “I have been young, and now am old; Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his descendants begging bread.” (Psalms 37:25). When God is first in this life, we know that we are prepared for the life to come.

God Bless each of you,

Eric Hicks

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