The First Commandment: Why We Must Put God First in Our Lives
As Christians, we are called to put God first in our lives. This is the essence of the first commandment: “You shall have no other gods before me” (Exodus 20:3). But what does it mean to put God first? And why is it so important for our spiritual growth and well-being?
Putting God First: What It Means
Putting God first means recognizing that He is the source of all good things in our lives. It means acknowledging His sovereignty, His wisdom, and His love. It means trusting in His promises and seeking His will in all our decisions.
When we put God first, we make Him the priority in our lives. We seek Him above all else, and we trust in His guidance and provision. We recognize that He alone can satisfy the deepest longings of our hearts, and we seek to live in a way that honors Him and brings Him glory.
Why It Matters
Putting God first is essential for our spiritual growth and well-being. When we make God the priority in our lives, we are better able to experience His peace, joy, and love. We are more open to His guidance and more receptive to His blessings. We are better equipped to navigate the challenges of life and to fulfill our God-given purpose.
Moreover, when we put God first, we become more like Him. We reflect His character and His love to those around us. We become vessels of His grace and His mercy, shining lights in a dark and broken world.
Biblical Examples
The Bible is full of examples of men and women who put God first in their lives. One of the most striking examples is found in the book of Daniel. When King Darius issued a decree forbidding anyone to pray to any god or man except him, Daniel refused to obey. He continued to pray to God three times a day, even though he knew it could cost him his life.
Daniel’s example shows us the importance of putting God first, even in the face of opposition or persecution. When we trust in God and put Him first, He is faithful to uphold us and to provide for us, no matter what challenges we may face.
Conclusion
The first commandment reminds us of the importance of putting God first in our lives. When we make God the priority in our lives, we experience His peace, joy, and love. We become vessels of His grace and His mercy, shining lights in a dark and broken world. Let us strive to put God first in all we do, trusting in His guidance and provision, and seeking to live in a way that honors Him and brings Him glory.