Priority ListSample

Heart and Mind

Day 1: Setting Him as our Priority
Scripture: Matthew 6:25-34

Life is full of competing priorities. We juggle work, relationships, responsibilities, and countless other demands. Amid the chaos, Jesus calls us to reorder our lives with one primary focus: seeking God's kingdom first. Matthew 6:25-34 is a direct challenge to how we live, reminding us that everything else falls into its rightful place when we place God as our number one priority.

Jesus begins by addressing a common struggle: worry. He tells us not to worry about our lives: what we will eat, drink, or wear because our Heavenly Father already knows our needs. Instead of obsessing over temporary concerns, Jesus invites us into complete dependence on Him. He uses the birds of the air and the flowers of the field as examples of how God provides abundantly for His creation. If He cares for them, how much more does He care for us?

However, the key to experiencing this provision is in Matthew 6:33: "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." Seeking God first is more than a verbal commitment; it's a daily choice. Seeking Him first requires us to prioritize time with Him through prayer and scripture before diving into the day's demands. Time with Him allows us to filter our decisions through His wisdom rather than relying on our understanding. When we put Him first, He prioritizes the rest.

Setting our hearts on God requires a shift in perspective. Instead of chasing after earthly needs, we chase after Him, acknowledging Him as our provider and sustainer. Pursuing Him first is how we love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength by devoting every part of our being to Him. It sets a standard for how our thoughts, affections, and actions reflect His presence. This shift fixes our eyes on Him, the author and perfector of our faith.

Over the first 15 days of this devotional plan, we will focus on every area of life that could try to prioritize itself over Jesus Christ. Those who acknowledge Jesus Christ as the Lord over their heart will find their lives shifting around His leadership.

Take a moment to reflect on what truly holds first place in your life. Are there worries or distractions that are keeping you from fully trusting God? Ask Him to help you release those concerns and realign your heart with His priorities. When we set our heart on Him, we step into the peace and provision that only He can give.

Prayer:
Father, I often let worries and distractions take priority over you. Help me to seek your kingdom first, trusting that you will provide all I need. Align my heart with Yours and teach me to live in the peace that comes from putting you first. Let my love for you shape my thoughts, actions, and desires so I may run this race with endurance. It is in the name of Jesus we pray, amen.