
Do Not Worry
The Principle of Priority: Finding Home in God’s Kingdom
Gathering together in worship is always a blessing. The fellowship of the saints, the smiles, and the conversations we share bring joy and strength to our lives. This sense of community reminds us of the importance of home—a place where we feel secure and belong. For many of us, home is not just a physical location; it embodies the love of family and the presence of God.
A Personal Reflection on Home
Growing up in a large family of seven boys and three girls, home was a priority for me. Despite its imperfections, it was my sanctuary. Even as I traveled and explored life on my own, there was always a longing to return home. This feeling is universal; we all seek a place where we belong, a sense of security, and ultimately, a connection with God.
The Longing for Home
In his reflections, Hunter Adams captures this longing beautifully:
“All of life is a coming home. Salesmen, secretaries, coal miners, beekeepers… all the restless hearts of the world, all trying to find a way home.”
This desire for home can stem from a deeper spiritual need. As Ecclesiastes 3:11 states, God has “planted eternity in the human heart,” creating a mysterious longing that only His presence can fulfill.
Understanding the Principle of Priority
Today, I want to discuss the principle of priority—a concept that revolves around putting God first in our lives. In Matthew 6:33, Jesus instructs us to “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” This scripture emphasizes the importance of prioritizing our relationship with God above all else.
The Importance of Prioritizing God
Trust in God: Worrying about life’s necessities is unnecessary when we trust that God knows our needs (Matthew 6:25-32).
Unfruitful Worry: Jesus teaches that worrying does not add any value to our lives (Matthew 6:27). Instead, we should focus on God’s provision.
Unbecoming Behavior: As believers, worrying is unbecoming of those who have the Spirit of God within them.
A Humorous Misunderstanding
I remember a young man named Bam Bam during my time as a chaplain in a state penitentiary. He humorously misinterpreted Psalm 37:4, believing that delighting in the Lord meant he could escape from prison. This highlights a common mistake: thinking we can pursue our desires without truly seeking God’s guidance.
Embracing the Kingdom
When we embrace the kingdom of God, we invite His presence into our lives. This presence transforms us, allowing us to see our shortcomings and areas for growth. As we prioritize God, we experience a profound change within ourselves.
Reflecting on Our Priorities
The saddest decision I made was trying to fit God into my busy schedule instead of making Him the priority. This often leads to a cycle of neglecting our spiritual lives. However, it’s never too late to shift our focus back to God.
Conclusion: A Call to Seek First
As we navigate our lives, let us remember that the Father’s good pleasure is to give us the kingdom. Embracing this kingdom not only transforms us but also brings us home—providing security, value, and worth.
A Prayer for Guidance
Let us pray together:
“God, I thank you for your holy scriptures and your desire to give us the kingdom. May we seek first the Kingdom of God, finding our true home in You. Guide us today and always, in Jesus’ name, amen.”
By prioritizing our relationship with God, we can find our way home—where we truly belong.
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