THE IMPORTANCE OF PUTTING GOD FIRST: A CALL TO HONOR HIM IN EVERY AREA OF LIFE By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." - Matthew 6:33 (NKJV)
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INTRODUCTION
In the fast-paced world we live in today, many people are constantly seeking after personal gain, wealth, and success. The pursuit of these things can often lead individuals away from the true purpose of their lives, which is to serve and honor God above all else. Unfortunately, too many have become consumed with self-interest and worldly ambitions, forgetting that it is God who is the ultimate source of all blessings. As a result, they find themselves struggling with dissatisfaction, frustration, and spiritual emptiness. In contrast, when we put God first in our lives, we align ourselves with His will and open the door for His blessings to flow abundantly into every area of our lives.
The key message here is simple yet profound: God desires to be first in our hearts, our minds, and our actions. He does not want to be just another part of our lives but rather the central focus of all that we do. When we prioritize God and place Him at the forefront, everything else falls into place. This article explores the importance of putting God first, the consequences of not doing so, and the blessings that come when we honor Him above all else.
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THE DANGER OF SELFISHNESS AND GREED
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” – Matthew 6:21 (NKJV)
Selfishness and greed are powerful forces that can easily take over our lives, pushing us to prioritize our own desires and ambitions over God's will. In a society that constantly promotes individualism and self-centeredness, it is easy to fall into the trap of living for ourselves. Many people strive for success, wealth, and status, believing that these things will bring fulfillment and happiness. However, the truth is that when we live with selfish motives, we only find ourselves empty and dissatisfied.
The Bible warns us about the dangers of pursuing worldly wealth and success at the expense of our relationship with God. Jesus Himself told us that where our treasure is, there our heart will also be (Matthew 6:21). If our hearts are focused solely on material gain, we will miss the true purpose of our lives. When we put ourselves first, we forget that everything we have, including our time, talents, and resources, is a gift from God. Instead of seeking to serve Him, we become consumed with satisfying our own desires, which ultimately leads to disappointment.
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THE CONSEQUENCES OF NOT PUTTING GOD FIRST
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.” – Matthew 22:37 (NKJV)
When we fail to put God first, we open the door to a multitude of negative consequences. One of the most significant consequences is spiritual emptiness. When we prioritize the things of this world over our relationship with God, we create a void in our hearts that can only be filled by His presence. Without Him at the center, we are left chasing after fleeting pleasures that will never truly satisfy.
Moreover, the Bible makes it clear that when we neglect God and His purposes, we will face His judgment. Nations that have turned away from God and sought after their own desires are often left to experience the consequences of their actions. From economic distress to social unrest, the consequences of ignoring God’s ways are evident throughout history and continue to be seen today.
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THE CALL TO HONOR GOD WITH OUR FIRST FRUITS
“Honor the Lord with your possessions, and with the firstfruits of all your increase; so your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine.” – Proverbs 3:9-10 (NKJV)
One of the most important ways we can honor God is by giving Him our first fruits. This means that we dedicate the first portion of our resources, time, and efforts to God. Whether it is our finances, our talents, or our time, God deserves to be prioritized in every area of our lives.
The act of giving God our first fruits is not just about financial offerings; it’s about acknowledging that everything we have comes from Him. By honoring Him with the first part of everything, we show our trust in His provision and our commitment to His will. God promises to bless those who honor Him in this way. When we give Him the first of our increase, He will bless the rest and ensure that we lack nothing.
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THE PROMISE OF GOD'S BLESSINGS
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” – Matthew 6:33 (NKJV)
When we put God first, we position ourselves to receive His blessings. Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:33 that when we seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, everything else will be added to us. This is a powerful promise that assures us that when we prioritize God and His will, He will provide for our needs and bless us in ways we cannot imagine.
God’s blessings are not limited to material wealth; they encompass spiritual, emotional, and relational prosperity. When we align ourselves with God’s purposes, we experience peace, joy, and fulfillment that cannot be found in the pursuit of worldly success. Furthermore, God’s blessings are not just for us but are meant to flow through us to others. As we honor God, we become vessels through which His goodness and mercy can touch the lives of those around us.
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SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION
In conclusion, putting God first in our lives is not just a suggestion—it is a command that brings immense blessings and protection. When we prioritize God and His will above all else, we align ourselves with His purposes and open the door for His blessings to flow freely into our lives. Conversely, when we allow selfishness, greed, and worldly ambitions to take precedence, we find ourselves spiritually empty and unfulfilled.
God desires to bless His people, but His blessings are contingent on our willingness to honor Him with our first fruits and seek His kingdom above all else. As we do this, we will experience His provision, peace, and joy, and our lives will bear fruit for His glory. Let us be a people who put God first in every area of our lives, trusting in His goodness and His promises.
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CALL TO ACTION
• Reflect on your life and consider whether you are truly putting God first in all areas. Are there areas where you need to surrender your selfish desires and align yourself with His will?
• Begin honoring God with your first fruits, whether in your finances, time, or talents. Trust that as you put Him first, He will bless you abundantly.
• Share this message with others, encouraging them to seek God’s kingdom above all else and to honor Him with their lives.
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FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
“But the path of the just is like the shining sun, that shines ever brighter unto the perfect day.” – Proverbs 4:18 (NKJV)
As you choose to put God first, remember that His ways are always better than your own. Trust in His timing, His provision, and His plan for your life. Keep your eyes fixed on Him, and He will lead you into a life of blessings, fulfillment, and peace.
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PRAYER OF SALVATION
If you are ready to make Jesus the Lord of your life and put Him first in all things, pray this prayer:
Heavenly Father, I come before You in the name of Jesus. I acknowledge that I am a sinner in need of Your grace. I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and that He died for my sins and rose again. I ask You to forgive me of my sins and come into my heart as my Lord and Savior. Help me to put You first in all things and to live according to Your will. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
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If you have prayed this prayer, welcome to the family of God! Now begin your journey with Him by reading His Word, praying, and seeking His guidance in everything you do. May God bless you abundantly!
