Is He First?

As I was pouring out my heart to God, I began discussing with Him what it means to put Him first. The more I thought about it, the more I realized how often I miss the mark. I began to weep as the realization of my failures came rushing to the surface. It wasn't condemnation I felt, but a conviction and sorrow for wasted hours and opportunities to spend more time with the one I love, allowing His Spirit to fill me with fresh oil. The kind of anointing oil that overflows to convict sinners, heal the sick, and touch and change lives. 

The truth is, I still deal with selfishness at times. I come home feeling exhausted after a busy day, and I don't always immediately close myself in with Him. I know His Spirit is beckoning me and His presence is where I find the greatest joy, fulfillment, and peace, yet there are times that fatigue, pain, and stress dictates how I spend my time, and it's wasted as I put my desires first. 

Once you've tasted the deep things of God you realize what you're missing when mediocrity tries to creep in. The irony of how I feel is that I've actually been drawing closer to Jesus, and I do feel His tangible presence very close to me...it's intoxicating, overwhelming and stirs deeper hunger for more. The closer I get the more I realize I have so far to go and so much more flesh to shed. Though the journey can be difficult as our weaknesses are revealed, with every step forward more baggage is shed. We are then able to travel a little lighter and hear His voice a little more clearly. 

That's what this entire thing called life is about...walking, and communing with our Savior, crucifying our flesh in order for more of His Spirit to be revealed in and through us. Going deep into His Word and close enough to hear Him whisper His desires for our lives, then walking in obedience KEEPING HIM FIRST! So, ask yourself... IS HE FIRST? 

Proverbs 3: 4-5 (TLB) If you want favor with both God and man, and a reputation for good judgment and common sense, then trust the Lord completely; don’t ever trust yourself. In everything you do, put God first, and he will direct you and crown your efforts with success.

Matthew 6:33 (ESV) But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Matthew 15:8 (KJV) This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.

Revelation 2:4 (KJV) Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.