Jesus First: Seven Practices to Put Your Life Back in OrderSample

Day 1: Introduction to Philippians

The year is A.D. 60. Paul is under arrest in a Roman governor’s quarters — likely the praetorium in Caesarea. His freedom has vanished, his future is uncertain, and his Kingdom mission looks like it’s been put on hold. The conditions are bleak, too: poor food, dim light, and rough treatment. If ever there were a time to spiral into complaining and self-pity, this would be it.

But instead, Paul writes an extraordinary letter to his friends in Philippi — one overflowing with joy, purpose, and unshakable spiritual clarity. No bitterness. No panic. No self-protection. Just Jesus first: front and centre, exalted amid the chaos.

Even the opening greeting, today’s passage, overflows with faith: “Grace and peace to you” (NIV verse 2). Far more than a pleasantry, this is a declaration flowing from deep, hopeful conviction. Paul’s body may be chained, but his inner life is radiant and free. Why? Because Jesus wasn’t part of his life — Jesus was his life.

This is why the book of Philippians still speaks with such power today. Rather than being some dusty, outdated, lofty-theological text, it’s a gritty, vibrant, street-level letter for real people navigating real pressure: burnout, disappointment, restraint, distraction, uncertainty. It’s for anyone longing to put Jesus first — not in theory, but in practice. Not just in part, but in every part.

Spiritual formation, you see, isn’t an abstract concept. It happens in real time, in real life, through our rhythms and habits — through thousands of small decisions that gradually rewire what we love, how we live, and who we trust. In that way, Philippians is more than an interesting, ancient text — it’s a roadmap to a “Jesus first” life.

Over the coming days, we’ll explore seven life-giving practices embedded in this short letter:

The practice of progress.

The practice of perspective.

The practice of humility.

The practice of letting go.

The practice of pressing on.

The practice of peace.

The practice of contentment.

Each practice is a step toward a reordered life — a life where Jesus is no longer at the fringes but made foremost, forever. A life of depth, resilience, and holy ambition. This journey won’t start with perfection, but with progress. Not striving, but surrender. One small practice at a time.

Practice Prompt: Put your Bible or journal somewhere visible tonight — your bedside, your desk, even the kitchen bench. Let it become a cue for this journey: a reminder that over these next days, you’re building new spiritual rhythms.

Prayer: Jesus, I want you to be more than part of my life. I want you to be my life: first and foremost in my heart, forever. As I begin this journey through Philippians, reorder what’s out of place. Unclutter my inner world. Draw me close. And teach me, through your holy Word, to put you first — one practice at a time. Amen.