4:114 – God First, Me Later

#faithbites #faithjourney first

Setting

Looking back on #faithbites, I use the word I alot. Yes, this is my #faithjourney and that I share but I wonder if I focus on myself too much.

I worry about food, work, my kids, my family, the neighborhood, and so many others. Heck, I’m even trying to save money so I can get a new 3D printer for me. Is that putting God first? I was even thinking I could start selling 3D prints and calling it 10% Prints. 10% to Church, 10% to a community organization. Is that enough? Will I be taken care of? Am I saving enough for the future? Very challenging. Look back at these wo paragraphs and I’ve use the word I 10 times.

Today’s Questions: What is the balance between being an advocate for yourself and putting God first? How can you truly turn it all to God?

Scripture

• Matthew 6:31-33 – Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
• Proverbs 16:3 – Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.

Reflection

I, there I go again, don’t have to add much here. Our Matthew text says it all. We don’t need to worry about food, clothing, as God knows what we need. He will make it work. It’s called faith.

And yes, it is very very hard. When we think about money and giving 10-20% away, we think of all the stuff we could do with that. What if we changed our viewpoints and thought that 80% was ours and 20% was for others. What if we thought that 100% was God’s and he gives us the portion we need? It changes the conversation.

It’s not an easy mind shift. I think about it daily and try. That’s what God asks. Work for it, ask forgiveness, and do the best we can.

As we close, think of what’s you can trust God will take care of everything and you don’t need to worry about it.

Prayer

Father God, we love you and thank you for providing for all of our needs. We pray that you help us change our minds from self first to God first. Open our hearts and make us servants first. In your name, Amen.