GOD FIRST: THE BREATH OF LIFE AND THE FOUNDATION OF FAITH
God First: The Breath of Life and the Foundation of Faith
Understanding "God First" – The Essence of Our Existence
Putting God first is not just a phrase; it is the very foundation of life itself. Scripture tells us, "In Him we live and move and have our being" (Acts 17:28). Every breath we take is a divine gift, and the moment it ceases, we return to dust (Genesis 3:19). Our earthly identity fades, and we are no longer recognized by our name, but simply as a "dead body." This reality should awaken us to the truth: our lives are sustained by God, and without Him, we are nothing.
Why the World Misunderstands "God First"
Despite the first and greatest commandment—**"You shall have no other gods before Me" (Exodus 20:3)—**many treat it as an afterthought. The world often prioritizes wealth, power, and self-interest over God, making Him a last resort instead of the first. But Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:33, "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." Ignoring this principle leads to spiritual decay, which is more dangerous than physical death.
The Consequences of Ignoring God's Commandments
Even though God's Word is clear, people continue to follow the ways of the world, unknowingly aligning themselves with the enemy. The Bible warns in Matthew 12:30, "He who is not with Me is against Me." To dishonor God is to honor Satan by default. Some may disagree, but Satan understands human nature better than we do. He deceives many into believing they can live without God, just as he deceived Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:4-5).
When God declares, "Put Me first," many question Him and seek validation from the world, only to be misled. Satan whispers lies, saying, "God only wants to control you and keep you from being free!" This same deception led humanity into sin, and unfortunately, many still believe it today.
Rejecting God—A Dangerous Choice
Even if God Himself were to stand before the world and proclaim the truth, many would still call Him a liar. John 1:10-11 states, "He was in the world, and though the world was made through Him, the world did not recognize Him. He came to His own, but His own did not receive Him." Instead of accepting Him, they mock and reject Him. This is the tragic reality—many have replaced God with worldly idols, treating Satan’s lies as truth.
People wonder why souls end up in hell, but the answer is clear: it is not God’s will that any should perish (2 Peter 3:9), but people choose to reject Him. Hell is not God’s mistake—it is humanity’s choice.
The Illusion of Self-Sufficiency
Many live with the mindset, "As long as I have money and success, why should I worry about God?" However, Jesus warns in Luke 12:15, "A man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions." Prioritizing material wealth over God is a dangerous trap. Mark 8:36 asks, "What does it profit a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?"
To put God first means recognizing that He is more essential than food, air, or wealth. Jesus emphasized this when He said, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4).
Standing Firm in Faith—No Room for Doubt
If you are hesitant, double-minded, or indifferent about God’s place in your life, you become an easy target for the enemy. James 1:6-8 warns against being unstable in faith: "The one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. Such a person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord."
No pastor, priest, or religious leader can save your soul if you are unwilling to fully commit to God. They may guide and support you, but ultimately, salvation is a personal decision. Only through true faith in Jesus Christ can we find eternal security (John 14:6).
How to Truly Put God First
1. Prioritize Daily Prayer and Scripture Reading – Spend time with God before anything else. Psalm 119:105 says, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."
2. Live a Christ-Centered Life – Reflect God’s love in your actions. Colossians 3:17 reminds us, "Whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus."
3. Seek God's Will Over Your Own Desires – Let His plans guide you. Proverbs 3:5-6 urges, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding."
4. Reject the Lies of the Enemy – Recognize Satan’s deception and stand firm in faith. Ephesians 6:11 commands us, "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes."
5. Be Unashamed of Your Faith – Proclaim God’s truth boldly. Romans 1:16 declares, "For I am not ashamed of the Gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes."
Final Thoughts: God First, Always
Putting God first is not an option; it is a necessity for eternal life. The world may mock or reject Him, but His truth remains unchanged. Joshua 24:15 challenges us, "Choose this day whom you will serve... but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."
Will you put God first today? The choice is yours—but remember, eternity depends on it...