Who is there who does not struggle with setting priorities for their lives? Every day has its chores and it is likely that not all of them will be accomplished. The beginning of every new week, month or year can cause us to think of what needs to be done in that time frame. What we actually do will be determined by the goals we set. Even the failure to select priorities determines destiny.
Now think of how this applies to our spiritual lives. If what we accomplish in a day or week is shaped by our priorities, then how much truer is this of our entire spiritual lives. What does the Bible say about this matter. Look at the following verses where God has talked about first things.
Paul described the faithfulness of the Christians in Macedonia. “And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave themselves to the Lord and then to us by the will of God” (2 Cor. 8:5). When Paul received the vision of the man from Macedonia who begged him saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us” (Acts 16:9), he departed immediately. The result of this action was the establishing of the great New Testament church in Philippi. Why was this church so great? Look at the text, “They first gave themselves to the Lord.”
Think about priorities in the home. What should be first in our homes? God leaves no doubt and mentions two distinct virtues which should be found there. Paul described the faith of Timothy in these words. “I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you” (2 Tim. 1:5). What was the priority in the lives of Lois and Eunice? What was the emphasis in those homes? It was the faith which first was in Lois and then in the succeeding generations.
A second virtue to be found in the home is mentioned in 1 Tim. 5. “Let them first learn to show piety at home . . .” This is where it begins. Godliness in the home is a first priority!
Consider also the place of prayer in the lives of Christians. Before we take any action, the Bible highlights the importance of us seeking God’s wisdom and help. “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplication, prayers, intercessions and giving of thanks be made for all men” (1 Tim. 2:1). Look at the text. “Therefore I exhort first. . .” Yet how often do we see the importance of this? Before all else, there is the matter of prayer. If David and Daniel began each day with prayer, shouldn’t we?
So as you plan each day, don’t forget the Divine priorities set by heaven. It will make an eternal difference!