SEEK GOD FIRST
Jenna Worsham
Today’s Scripture: “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 6:33, ESV
Theme: Endless options may cause us to miss what is important. Seek God first.
PLANNERS, RESOLUTIONS AND DIETS, OH MY!
I love having an organizational daily/weekly/monthly planner. I especially love a beautifully designed one with lots of space for me to make my plans, for they are many! I love to fill up all those spaces with the things I will accomplish and the things I will enjoy. Drink water! Get to the gym! Stay organized! Check off the list. Meal planning? No sweat. More music, art, writing, thankfulness, walking, and cooking healthy and delicious meals and snacks. The options are endless. Sometimes I think I can plan my way into a new year, that my organizational skills and “can-do” attitude will take me to the next level. Those ... and my good intentions, honorable resolutions, and grit.
ONLY ONE THING IS NEEDED
Even when serving, we can lose focus on the one thing that takes priority. Maybe you identify as I do with the interaction Jesus has with two sisters: “But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, ‘Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.’ But the Lord answered her, ‘Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her’” (Luke 10:40-42, ESV) [emphasis mine]. Jesus sees Martha doing something good (serving everyone at her home and hosting) but reminds her that “one thing is necessary.” This implies that every other thing is secondary: not bad, but secondary. Our good portion is seeking God, wholeheartedly, first, before any other good thing – even serving, feeding, or hosting Him in your literal house as Martha was doing. Can you imagine?
OF ALL THE OPTIONS – CHOOSE SEEKING
We have endless opportunities. Of all the good things we can do this yea,r let’s make seeking God our priority. Let’s not be distracted. Let’s not be frustrated. Let’s not be overwhelmed. Let’s be mindful of our first calling, the only thing necessary – sitting at Jesus’ feet.
Make It Personal: What is your priority today? How does your schedule show that? Consider the endless options available and which are not necessary in this season.
Pray: God, thank You for clear direction on what is needed. I’m sorry for the many times I have been worried and distracted by other things. Help me to remember that no matter what options come up, Your priority for me is seeking You. I try so hard to choose correctly, I put effort into doing the right thing, yet if I will seek You, all those other concerns will be answered and handled. Help me to do that seeking. Help me to remember that it isn’t hard work; it’s a necessary resetting and recharging. You are so good to me. Thank You for Your constant care and companionship. In Jesus’ Name we pray, amen.
Read: 1 Chronicles 28:8-9; Psalm 14:2; Psalm 63:1
Weekly Memory Verse: “For thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, ‘In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.’ But you were unwilling...” Isaiah 30:15, ESV