Mensa Otabil - The Right Priority

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Matthew chapter 6:33 states, «But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.» However, we must know how to place first things first. What should be the most important thing that we seek for this year? In setting our goals for the year and establishing our vision, we must determine what our priorities are. What should be the first thing we do, and what should be the second thing we do? Here, Jesus tells us that although all the things we need in life are necessary, we must seek first the kingdom of God.

It’s like learning the alphabet. No matter how late you are in learning to read and write in school, you may have attended school in your adult years, but you still have to start with A, B, C if you want to learn the numerals. You must start with 1, 2, 3; you cannot begin with more complex algebra. The same principle applies: no matter how much you have lost in life, you still have to set your goals with the right things done first, and the first thing we do is seek the kingdom of God.

So, the question is: how do we set our priorities with the kingdom of God? How does the kingdom of God become number one in our lives? By the way, when Jesus says «seek first the kingdom of God,» He doesn’t say «seek only the kingdom of God.» He says «seek first.» First implies that there will be second, third, and fourth. So, the first in line is the kingdom of God, but all other things must also be prioritized in our lives in sequence and in order.

Here are a couple of things to help us start right this year. First, we have to spend time with God daily. Many people refer to it as having a quiet time, a devotional, or a prayer time-time to study the Bible and time to pray. Whatever you call it, make time for a daily encounter with God. It doesn’t have to consume all your time, but you must prioritize it and determine that every day you will spend time with God.

Secondly, prioritize sharing the Word of God with someone else. Tell somebody about Jesus Christ. Share the power of God to help them, to be saved, to be healed, and to receive assistance. Third, prioritize serving God with your time and talents. We give time to so many things — television, football — and many times, when it comes to God, we start cutting that time. If you are going to seek first the kingdom of God, then make time for Him. Serve Him with your time, your talents, and your gifts. Don’t use your gifts only for the job you do to earn an income; use your gifts, talents, skills, and training to serve God and to serve in the house of God. Find a place in church where your gifts are needed.

Number four: support the work of God financially. Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. If you truly love God, then your treasure-your finances-must also be involved in the work of God. Seek first; prioritize God, and all the other things will fall into place. These simple steps will help you immensely this year as you set big goals for yourself.

Let’s share a word of prayer together. Say with me: Heavenly Father, You are the priority of my life. I set my heart to seek You first in all that I do. In Jesus' name, amen and amen.