12. Seeking God First: The Key to Effective Sharing of Christ
Matthew 6:33 “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”
In Matthew 6:33, Jesus instructs His followers to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, promising that all other things will be added unto them. This verse holds a profound truth that can transform our lives and make us effective in sharing the message of Christ with others. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of falling in love with God as the first step towards effective evangelism. We will also address common obstacles and practical ways to deepen our relationship with Him.
Prioritizing God Amidst Busyness
In today's fast-paced world, busyness often consumes our lives, leaving little room for spiritual pursuits. However, when we evaluate the eternal impact of our activities, we realize that not all pursuits are of equal significance. Putting God first means allowing Him to invade our thoughts throughout the day, surrendering our goals and desires to His will. Reflect on the question: "How much of our minds are devoted to heavenly goals and the well-being of others?" Letting God guide our thoughts and actions paves the way for a genuine love for Him and others.
Embracing a Change in Habits
Sometimes, our daily routines and habits can hinder our relationship with God. It is essential to examine these patterns and be open to adjustments prompted by the Holy Spirit. For example, if we find ourselves putting personal activities before spending time with God, we may need to reconsider our priorities. The Lord often prompts us to rearrange our schedules to make room for Him. By allowing Him to lead our mornings and seeking Him first, we demonstrate our love and commitment to a deeper relationship.
Study in Your Preferred Method
Learning and growing in faith can take different forms depending on our individual learning styles. Whether visual, auditory, or kinesthetic, there are resources available to help us engage with God's Word. Auditory learners can explore sermons, podcasts, and YouTube channels that provide insightful teachings. Visual learners can immerse themselves in reading books, devotionals, and scripture. Kinesthetic learners can combine physical activities like running or walking with listening to audio recordings or memorizing verses. By adapting our study methods to our preferences, we can effectively absorb and internalize God's truth.
The Power of Prayer
Prayer is a vital aspect of developing a deeper relationship with God. By continually seeking His guidance and presence, we open ourselves to His transformative work within us. One powerful prayer is to ask the Lord to teach us how to love Him more each day and to reveal Himself to us. Job 42:5-6 exemplifies the awe-inspiring revelation Job experienced after encountering God's presence. Through prayer, we can experience a similar transformative encounter that leads us to repentance and a deeper commitment to follow Christ.
Conclusion
In our pursuit of effective evangelism, we must remember that it all begins with falling in love with God. By seeking Him first and prioritizing His kingdom and righteousness, we align our hearts with His purpose. Despite the challenges of busyness and distractions, we can make intentional choices to deepen our relationship with Him. Whether it's adjusting our habits, engaging in consistent study, or committing to fervent prayer, every step towards God strengthens our ability to share His love and message with others. Let us remember the words of Matthew 6:33 and embrace a life centered on seeking God first, trusting that all other things will be added unto us.
Job 42: 5-6 NIV “My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you. Therefore I despise myself and repent in dust and ashes.”