Introduction:
The concept of prioritizing God's work is deeply rooted in Scripture, emphasizing the importance of placing God's will and purposes above personal ambitions and worldly concerns. This principle is evident throughout the Bible, where believers are called to seek God's kingdom first and align their lives with His divine plan.

Biblical Foundation:
The call to prioritize God's work is encapsulated in Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 6:33 , Jesus instructs, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you." This verse underscores the necessity of placing God's kingdom at the forefront of one's life, assuring believers that their needs will be met when they do so.

Old Testament Examples:
The Old Testament provides numerous examples of individuals who prioritized God's work. Nehemiah, for instance, demonstrated this principle when he left his position in the Persian court to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. Despite opposition and personal risk, Nehemiah remained focused on God's mission (Nehemiah 6:3): "So I sent messengers to them, saying, 'I am doing a great work and cannot come down. Why should the work stop while I leave it to go down to you?'"

Similarly, the prophet Haggai challenged the Israelites to prioritize the rebuilding of the temple over their own homes. Haggai 1:4-5 states, "Is it a time for you yourselves to live in your paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins? Now this is what the LORD of Hosts says: 'Consider carefully your ways.'"

New Testament Teachings:
In the New Testament, the apostles exemplified prioritizing God's work through their dedication to spreading the Gospel. The Apostle Paul, in particular, demonstrated unwavering commitment to his divine calling. In Acts 20:24 , Paul declares, "But I consider my life of no value to me, if only I may finish my course and complete the ministry I have received from the Lord Jesus—the ministry of testifying to the good news of God's grace."

Jesus Himself modeled this principle, as seen in John 4:34 , where He states, "My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to finish His work." This highlights the importance of aligning one's life with God's purposes, even above physical sustenance.

Practical Application:
Prioritizing God's work involves a conscious decision to align one's time, resources, and efforts with God's will. This may require sacrifices, such as foregoing personal desires or ambitions, to fulfill God's calling. Believers are encouraged to engage in regular prayer and study of Scripture to discern God's will and to seek guidance from the Holy Spirit.

In practical terms, prioritizing God's work can manifest in various ways, such as serving in ministry, supporting missions, or living out one's faith in daily interactions. It also involves trusting in God's provision and timing, as promised in Philippians 4:19 : "And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus."

Challenges and Encouragement:
While prioritizing God's work can be challenging in a world that often values personal success and material gain, believers are encouraged to remain steadfast. Hebrews 12:1-2 exhorts, "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith."

Ultimately, prioritizing God's work is an act of faith and obedience, reflecting a heart devoted to God's glory and the advancement of His kingdom.