The Strength of Godly Priorities
The Strength of Godly Priorities
By Pastor Alexander Redd
October 15, 2023
"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." (Matthew 6:33 ESV)
In a world where opinions and popularity often dictate our actions and decisions, it is easy to become weighed down by the constant need for approval and acceptance. But as followers of Christ Jesus, we should always focus on seeking and living out God's priorities rather than worrying about who likes or dislikes us.
The devotional scripture we are reflecting on today beautifully expresses a faith-based perspective. As for me, I have grown older to care about who likes me or doesn't like me. I say so because my statement reflects a deep understanding that my worth and identity are ultimately found in God, not in the opinions of others.
As believers, we are called to stand firm in our principles of faith in Christ Jesus, regardless of the reactions we may encounter. The Bible reminds us that the world may hate us because of our commitment to Christ (John 15:18-19), but we are assured that our lives have a greater purpose. We have a mission to fulfill, and we cannot allow the opinions of others to sway us from it.
A friend of mine recently put it this way, "I have more important things to take care of than to worry about who hates me." This echoes the sentiment shared by the apostle Paul in Philippians 3:13-14, where he encourages us to forget what lies behind us and press forward toward the goal of knowing Christ and making Him known.
Our time on this earth is limited, and we should use it wisely. Rather than dwelling on negativity, we are called to invest our time in things that truly matter. Let us focus on growing in our relationship with God, serving others, and sharing the love of Christ with a hurting world.
Let me ask you this question: does your life go on fine without those who say unpleasant things about you because of your regenerative life in Christ Jesus? While this question may come across as rhetorical, it reflects the resilience and confidence that come from grounding our lives in Christ Jesus. When we prioritize God's kingdom, He promises to provide for our needs (Matthew 6:33). We don't have to depend on the approval or validation of others to live a fulfilling life.
Bless those who bless you, love and support those who do the same, and pray for your enemies. This echoes the heart of Christ's teachings. Jesus taught us to love our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:31), to bear one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2), and to live in unity as His body (Colossians 3:14). Let us extend love, grace, and support to those around us, regardless of whether they reciprocate it.
Let us focus on seeking God's kingdom above all else, knowing that our identity and purpose lie in Him. May we live confidently, unburdened by the opinions of others. And may we extend love and support to all, reflecting the unconditional love and grace of our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Please pray with me:
Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us of the priorities that truly matter in life. Help us to seek Your kingdom above all else and to live out our faith with unwavering conviction. Grant us the strength and resilience to press on. To God be the power and glory. In Jesus' name. Amen.
By Pastor Alexander Redd
October 15, 2023
"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." (Matthew 6:33 ESV)
In a world where opinions and popularity often dictate our actions and decisions, it is easy to become weighed down by the constant need for approval and acceptance. But as followers of Christ Jesus, we should always focus on seeking and living out God's priorities rather than worrying about who likes or dislikes us.
The devotional scripture we are reflecting on today beautifully expresses a faith-based perspective. As for me, I have grown older to care about who likes me or doesn't like me. I say so because my statement reflects a deep understanding that my worth and identity are ultimately found in God, not in the opinions of others.
As believers, we are called to stand firm in our principles of faith in Christ Jesus, regardless of the reactions we may encounter. The Bible reminds us that the world may hate us because of our commitment to Christ (John 15:18-19), but we are assured that our lives have a greater purpose. We have a mission to fulfill, and we cannot allow the opinions of others to sway us from it.
A friend of mine recently put it this way, "I have more important things to take care of than to worry about who hates me." This echoes the sentiment shared by the apostle Paul in Philippians 3:13-14, where he encourages us to forget what lies behind us and press forward toward the goal of knowing Christ and making Him known.
Our time on this earth is limited, and we should use it wisely. Rather than dwelling on negativity, we are called to invest our time in things that truly matter. Let us focus on growing in our relationship with God, serving others, and sharing the love of Christ with a hurting world.
Let me ask you this question: does your life go on fine without those who say unpleasant things about you because of your regenerative life in Christ Jesus? While this question may come across as rhetorical, it reflects the resilience and confidence that come from grounding our lives in Christ Jesus. When we prioritize God's kingdom, He promises to provide for our needs (Matthew 6:33). We don't have to depend on the approval or validation of others to live a fulfilling life.
Bless those who bless you, love and support those who do the same, and pray for your enemies. This echoes the heart of Christ's teachings. Jesus taught us to love our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:31), to bear one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2), and to live in unity as His body (Colossians 3:14). Let us extend love, grace, and support to those around us, regardless of whether they reciprocate it.
Let us focus on seeking God's kingdom above all else, knowing that our identity and purpose lie in Him. May we live confidently, unburdened by the opinions of others. And may we extend love and support to all, reflecting the unconditional love and grace of our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Please pray with me:
Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us of the priorities that truly matter in life. Help us to seek Your kingdom above all else and to live out our faith with unwavering conviction. Grant us the strength and resilience to press on. To God be the power and glory. In Jesus' name. Amen.
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