As we embark on a new year, many of us find ourselves reflecting on our priorities and seeking ways to improve our lives. But what if the key to true transformation lies not in self-improvement strategies, but in a fundamental shift in our relationship with God? What if the secret to a fulfilling life is as simple – and as challenging – as putting God first in everything we do?
The concept of prioritizing God isn’t new, but it’s one that many of us struggle to implement consistently in our daily lives. We often relegate our faith to Sundays or treat it as an afterthought, rather than the foundation of our existence. However, scripture repeatedly emphasizes the importance of giving God the first and best of everything we have.
This principle is beautifully illustrated in the story of Cain and Abel. While both brothers brought offerings to God, Abel’s offering was favoured because he brought “fat portions from some of the firstborn of his flock.” In contrast, Cain simply brought “some of the fruits of the soil.” The difference lies not just in the quality of the offering, but in the heart attitude behind it. Abel prioritized God by giving Him the first and best, while Cain gave what was convenient.
This story introduces us to a powerful spiritual truth: God honours the first. When we give God our best – our first thoughts of the day, the first fruits of our labour, the first day of our week – He takes care of the rest. It’s a principle that runs throughout scripture and has the power to revolutionize our lives if we embrace it.
So, how can we practically implement this “God first” mentality in our lives? Here are four key areas to consider:
1. Give God the first of your year through prayer and fasting.
Starting the year with a focused period of prayer and fasting can set the tone for the months to come. It’s a powerful way to realign our hearts with God’s purposes and disconnect from worldly distractions. Whether it’s a complete fast, a selective fast (like the Daniel fast), or a partial fast, the goal is to replace the time we would normally spend on other activities with prayer and scripture reading.
2. Give God the first of your month through tithes and offerings.
The practice of tithing isn’t just about financial obedience; it’s a tangible way of acknowledging that everything we have comes from God. Deuteronomy 14:23 states that the purpose of tithing is “to teach you always to put God first in your lives.” When we prioritize giving to God’s work, even when our finances feel tight, we’re demonstrating our trust in His provision.
3. Give God the first of your week through consistent church attendance.
In our busy lives, it’s easy to view church attendance as optional. However, gathering regularly with other believers for worship, teaching, and fellowship is crucial for our spiritual growth. Jesus himself made it a habit to attend the synagogue, setting an example for us to follow. Moreover, being part of a church community provides both support when we’re struggling and opportunities to serve others.
4. Give God the first of your day through word, worship, and prayer.
Starting each day by spending time with God can dramatically impact our perspective and priorities. Even 15 minutes of reading scripture, listening to worship music, and praying can set the tone for the entire day. Jesus modelled this by rising early to pray, and many great men and women of faith have followed this pattern.
Implementing these practices isn’t about earning God’s favour or checking off religious boxes. Rather, it’s about cultivating a lifestyle that recognizes God’s supremacy in every area of our lives. It’s a daily choice to put Him at the center, not just as an add-on or an afterthought.
This shift in priority can be challenging. It may require us to reevaluate our schedules, our spending habits, and our daily routines. But the rewards are immeasurable. When we consistently put God first, we align ourselves with His purposes and open ourselves to His blessings.
Consider the analogy of repeatedly falling into a hole while walking down the same street. Many of us find ourselves in cycles of frustration, disappointment, or spiritual stagnation because we keep making the same choices. Putting God first is like choosing a different street altogether – it’s a fundamental change in direction that can lead to transformative results.
As we contemplate this call to prioritize God, it’s important to remember that it’s not about perfection, but direction. We may stumble, and we may have days where we fall short, but the key is to keep reorienting ourselves toward God. Each day presents a new opportunity to put Him first.
For those who have never committed to follow Jesus, or for those who feel they’ve drifted from their faith, embracing this “God first” mentality can be a powerful first step. It begins with a simple prayer of surrender, acknowledging our need for God’s grace and inviting Him to take the lead in our lives.
As we journey through this new year, let’s challenge ourselves to put God first in every aspect of our lives. Let’s give Him our best, not our leftovers. Let’s seek His kingdom and His righteousness above all else, trusting that as we do, everything else will fall into place.
The invitation is clear: change your priorities, and you’ll change your life. Put God first, and watch as He transforms your perspective, your relationships, and your very existence. It’s a journey of faith, but one that promises rich rewards for those who embark upon it with sincere hearts.
Are you ready to take the first step on this transformative path? The choice is yours. Will you continue walking down the same old street, or will you choose a new direction – one that puts God at the centre of everything? The adventure of a lifetime awaits those who dare to put God first.
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