HOW TO PUT GOD FIRST

July 3, 2026

I have set the Lord continually before me; because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Psalm 16:8

Prioritization isn’t always easy. Because of the drift factor of our flesh and the distracting nature of a world preoccupied with entertainment, amusement, and countless variables, it’s easy to lose sight of what matters most. When the tyranny of the urgent comes at us, God will help us keep first things first. Here are seven practical ways to put God first in our lives.

1. BE SAVED. The best part of our lives is our fellowship with God. The moment you give your heart to Jesus, the lights go on, and your heart is changed. If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. (2 Corinthians 5:17). 

2. BE BAPTIZED. Water baptism is an outward display of the inward change of giving your life to God. (Matthew 28:19).

3. GET A BIBLE AND READ IT DAILY. Carve out time in the morning to put Jesus first. Carve out time at night to end the day with prayer. If you wake up in the middle of the night, call out to the Lord. We are told to meditate on the Word day and night (Psalm 1; Joshua 1:8). When discouraging thoughts come or negative situations arise, open your Bible and start going back over the promises.

Every day, think of two or three things to thank God for.

4. GO TO CHURCH CONSISTENTLY. If you can, physically get to church. If it’s not possible, thank God for livestreamed services and YouTube, but there’s nothing like being together. Being under the preaching of God’s Word and in the atmosphere of faith keeps us tethered and strengthens us (Hebrews 10:24-25).

5. DO EVERYTHING WITH EXCELLENCE. Wherever you’re stationed in life, you matter (2 Corinthians 5:20). The Bible says, “Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord and not for people (Colossians 3:23 NASB 2020). Whatever you do, do it for an audience of One. 

6. PRAY ABOUT EVERYTHING. When you pray, you are going to get solutions, direction, and answers (Matthew 7:7-8). Pray about everything that vexes and bothers you. Instead of worrying about things, pray about them, and you’re going to get good results. (Philippians 4:6-7). If you get depressed, trust Him to pull you out of the miry clay. (Psalm 40:2). If you get anxious, cast your burdens on the Lord and He will sustain you. (Psalm 55:22). 

7. HONOR GOD IN EVERY SEASON OF LIFE. Life is full of seasons, and each season is blessed. Whether you’re single, married, a parent, or enjoying an empty nest, draw near to God through it all – in the highs, in the lows, when things are going great, when things are tough, and even if you fail. He loves it when we run to Him. He loves it when we’re authentic with Him. He will never leave you nor forsake you. (Hebrews 13:5; Matthew 28:20).

DEFINITION: heart·i·ly, adv.

With all the heart; with sincerity. With zeal; actively; vigorously. Eagerly; freely.

PRAY THIS PRAYER:

God, I am going all out for You. I will set You continually before me, and I will not be shaken. I pray for a spiritual strengthening and a boost from heaven. Help me in my personal devotion to be all out for Jesus – not busy or distracted but focused on the number one priority of putting You first in Jesus’ Name, amen.