Put Him First
from Dr Tony Evans

For this reason I say to you, do not be worried about your life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor for your body, as to what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? – (Matthew 6:25)

God says that if you will seek His kingdom first and His righteous standards first, then He will willingly grant you all of the things that often make themselves the focus of your worry.

You ought to put God’s kingdom first if for no other reason than to reduce your personal anxiety and worry. More than 40 million US adults suffer from a diagnosed form of anxiety. Countless millions more suffer from worry or anxiety on less severe levels. Worry is a common issue plaguing people today. Perhaps it is even plaguing you?

Whether it’s worrying about jobs, safety, health, relationships, flying, income, terrorism, the future, or anything else—worry eats away at many people’s ability to enjoy the gift of life that God has given them.

God tells us in this foundational principle for kingdom living—that of seeking Him and His kingdom first—that we actually don’t have to worry at all. God Himself is the very antidote to worry. In this same sermon by Jesus that we have been looking at in Matthew 6, we also read:

“For this reason I say to you, do not be worried about your life … ” (v. 25)
“And who of you by being worried … ” (v. 27)
“And why are you worried … ” (v. 28) “Do not worry then … ” (v. 31)
“So do not worry … ” (v. 34

That’s enough reason right there to put God first!

Reflection: What does worry accomplish in life? What does God say about worry? Read Matthew 6, and choose one or more verses to memorize.

Father, there are so many things that I worry about. Sometimes I call these things concerns, but it’s worry. I don’t want to worry but I do. Help me to focus on You and live in the peace of Your sovereign control and perfect will.