first

As we begin this new day, I'd like you to pause and reflect honestly and prayerfully on what I'm about to ask you:

Consider the beginning of a normal, average weekday. (Like today.) Now, in that day, where does God fit in? Is He merely one of many "things" to check off your list? Or is He truly your first focus - your constant devotion?  Do you wake up with Jesus in mind, or do you begin your day distracted away from His truth?  

It is human nature to preoccupy our minds outside of God and to fixate our eyes on the immediate distractions and stresses that occur around us... always keeping "us" in mind.  But how important is it, really, to start each day in the Savior's still?... Beginning every morning with a directed focus on the Creator's companionship?

Allow me to share with you some scripture from the Psalms:

In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly. (Psalm 5:3) 

But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble. You are my strength, I sing praise to you; you, God, are my fortress, my God on whom I can rely. (Psalm 59:16-17)

But I cry to you for help, Lord; in the morning my prayer comes before you. (Psalm 88:13)

Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days. (Psalm 90:14)

I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope. I wait for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning. (Psalm 130:5-6)

Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you.  Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life. Rescue me from my enemies, Lord, for I hide myself in you. Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground. For your name’s sake, Lord, preserve my life; in your righteousness, bring me out of trouble. In your unfailing love, silence my enemies; destroy all my foes, for I am your servant. (Psalm 143:8-12)

Although there are many more verses I could reference, it is clear from just these few passages that there is a vitally beneficial and nourishing relationship to be known with The Lord when we discipline ourselves to pray, worship, and study His Law first every morning.

Thou shalt not delay to offer the first of thy ripe fruits. (Exodus 22:29a)

When we rise and give our "first fruits" to the Creator, He blesses us and sets the tone of our hearts for the whole day.  Such discipline allows us the necessary time to know and equip ourselves with the armor of His Word.  It keeps Jesus and His kingdom in front of all other matters.  And shouldn't we begin this way?  Shouldn't God be first?  After all, He is God.  He is the Person we were created to glorify and love above all else... even ourselves.

I encourage you to re-think how you plan and begin your days.  Who you attend to first in the morning.  Who you love most evidenced by your schedule.  Believers, seek first His kingdom, His righteousness, and all the rest will be provided.

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (Matthew 6:33)

This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118:24)

Blessings!

~Victoria

© The Devoted Woman | Victoria Anderson