Matthew 6:33 – How can we put God first?
“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33, NRSV)
Jesus clearly said that we should put God first. When we seek the kingdom of God, He will provide for our needs. But in practice, how can we put God first?
Here are 10 practical ways we can put God first.
1. Spending time with God daily (prayer and Bible study)
We must develop a personal relationship with God every day.
The Bible says:
” If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples. ” (John 8:31)
How to do it?
- Make it a habit to read the Bible every morning.
- Communicate with God through regular prayer.
2. Obeying God’s commandments
Putting God first means obeying His commandments.
The Bible says:
” If you love me, keep my commandments. ” (John 14:15)
How to do it?
- Prioritize the teachings of the Bible in every decision in life.
- Walk on the path of truth, honesty, love, and righteousness.
3. Serving the Kingdom of God (church, mission, charity)
When we serve God’s kingdom, we put Him first.
The Bible says:
” Do everything for the glory of God. ” (1 Corinthians 10:31)
How to do it?
- Attend church services.
- Show others the love of Christ.
4. Dedicating your wealth, time, and resources to God
We should also use our wealth and resources for God.
The Bible says:
” Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. ” (Matthew 6:21)
How to do it?
- Participate in charity, tithing, and acts of kindness.
- Spend your time in service and charity.
5. Living by faith (not worry, trust)
When we put God first, we live in faith, not worry.
The Bible says:
” Without faith it is impossible to please God. ” (Hebrews 11:6)
How to do it?
- Trust in God in every situation.
- Instead of worrying, seek guidance from God.
6. Making decisions according to God’s will
Every decision we make should be based on Bible principles.
The Bible says:
” Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. ” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
How to do it?
- Pray to God before making any decision.
- Make decisions based on Bible principles.
7. Choosing God’s plan over selfishness
God’s will must be higher than our own plans.
The Bible says:
” Lord, not my will, but yours be done. ” (Luke 22:42)
How to do it?
- Leave your life plan in God’s hands.
- Choose God’s way over personal interests.
8. Choosing good relationships
We should choose friends who will help us stay faithful to God.
The Bible says:
” Bad relationships corrupt good character. ” (1 Corinthians 15:33)
How to do it?
- Spend time with friends who will grow you spiritually.
- Stay away from negative influences.
9. Stay away from the worldly temptations.
We should be guided by God’s will, not by worldly comforts.
The Bible says:
” Do not love the things in the world. ” (1 John 2:15-17)
How to do it?
- Avoid materialism and greed.
- Focus your attention on God’s eternal plan.
10. Sharing God’s love with others
The evidence of putting God first is our loving lifestyle.
The Bible says:
” The greatest commandment is: Love God and love your neighbor. ” (Matthew 22:37-39)
How to do it?
- Practice kindness, forgiveness, and love.
- Share the love of Christ with others.
conclusion
According to Matthew 6:33, we should focus on these 10 things to put God first:
- Prayer and Bible study
- Obeying God’s commandments
- Service to God
- Donate money, time, and resources
- Living by faith
- Making decisions according to God’s will
- Choosing God’s plan over selfishness
- Choosing good relationships
- Stay away from the world’s temptations.
- Sharing God’s love with others