Prioritizing God's Interests
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Definition and Importance

Prioritizing God's interests involves placing God's will, purposes, and commands above personal desires and worldly concerns. It is a fundamental principle in Christian living, reflecting a commitment to align one's life with God's divine plan. This prioritization is rooted in the belief that God's wisdom and purposes are superior to human understanding and that true fulfillment is found in serving Him.

Biblical Foundations

1. The Greatest Commandment: Jesus emphasized the importance of loving God above all else. In Matthew 22:37-38 , He states, "‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment." This commandment underscores the necessity of prioritizing God in every aspect of life.

2. Seek First the Kingdom: In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus instructs His followers to prioritize God's kingdom and righteousness. Matthew 6:33 declares, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you." This verse highlights the promise of provision when God's interests are placed first.

3. Denying Self: Jesus calls His disciples to a life of self-denial in favor of God's will. In Luke 9:23 , He says, "If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me." This call to self-denial is a direct challenge to prioritize God's interests over personal ambitions.

Examples from Scripture

1. Abraham's Obedience: Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac (Genesis 22) exemplifies prioritizing God's command over personal feelings. His faith and obedience demonstrated a profound trust in God's plan, even when it seemed contrary to human logic.

2. Jesus in Gethsemane: In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus models submission to God's will. Despite His anguish, He prays in Luke 22:42 , "Father, if You are willing, take this cup from Me. Yet not My will, but Yours be done." Jesus' prayer reflects the ultimate prioritization of God's interests over His own.

3. Paul's Ministry: The Apostle Paul consistently prioritized God's mission over his own safety and comfort. In Philippians 3:7-8 , he writes, "But whatever was gain to me I count as loss for the sake of Christ. More than that, I count all things as loss compared to the surpassing excellence of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord."

Practical Application

1. Prayer and Discernment: Regular prayer and seeking God's guidance are essential for understanding His interests. James 1:5 encourages believers to ask for wisdom, promising that God "gives generously to all without finding fault."

2. Scripture Engagement: Immersing oneself in the Bible helps to discern God's priorities. Psalm 119:105 states, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path," indicating that Scripture provides direction for aligning with God's interests.

3. Community and Accountability: Engaging with a community of believers offers support and accountability in prioritizing God's interests. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges believers to "spur one another on toward love and good deeds" and to "not neglect meeting together."

4. Sacrificial Living: Prioritizing God's interests often involves sacrifice. Romans 12:1 calls believers to "offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship."

Challenges and Rewards

Prioritizing God's interests can be challenging in a world that often promotes self-interest and materialism. However, the rewards are profound, including spiritual growth, peace, and a deeper relationship with God. Jesus assures in John 15:5 , "I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me, and I in him, will bear much fruit. For apart from Me you can do nothing." This promise highlights the fruitful life that results from prioritizing God's interests.
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