The Transformative Power of Putting God First

Have you ever wondered what it truly means to transform your life through faith? To come as you are, but leave changed? This profound concept lies at the heart of the Christian journey, challenging us to examine our priorities and the place God holds in our lives.
Consider the story of the rich young ruler from Mark 10:17-22. Here was a man who seemed to have it all - wealth, youth, and a position of authority. He even kept the commandments from his youth. Yet, something was missing, prompting him to run to Jesus and ask, "Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?"
Jesus' response cuts to the core of what it means to truly follow Him: "Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." This request revealed the one thing the young man lacked - a willingness to put God above everything else in his life, including his wealth.
How often do we find ourselves in a similar position? We may attend church, follow moral guidelines, and even engage in religious activities, but is God truly first in our lives? Or do we, like the rich young ruler, have other "gods" that we're hesitant to let go of?
The truth is, we all have something that can potentially take God's rightful place in our hearts. For some, it might be material possessions or the pursuit of wealth. For others, it could be relationships, career ambitions, or even our own pride and self-reliance. Whatever it may be, Jesus calls us to examine our hearts and be willing to surrender it all to follow Him.
This call to transformation isn't about adhering to a set of rules or simply modifying our behavior. It's about a fundamental shift in our priorities and perspective. When we truly put God first, everything else falls into place. Our relationships improve, our outlook on life changes, and we find a joy and peace that transcends circumstances.
Consider the profound impact this kind of transformation can have:
1. Freedom from fear: When God is first, we no longer need to fear the opinions of others or worry about measuring up to worldly standards.
2. Unconditional love: Understanding God's agape love for us - a love that is unconditional and never-ending - allows us to love others more fully and authentically.
3. Purpose and direction: With God at the center, we gain clarity about our purpose and the unique ways He wants to use us to impact the world.
4. Joy in all circumstances: True joy isn't dependent on external factors but comes from a deep relationship with God.
5. Peace that surpasses understanding: Even in life's storms, we can experience a peace that doesn't make sense to the world around us.
The journey of transformation is ongoing. It's not about perfection, but progress. As we grow in our faith, God continues to refine us, revealing areas where we still need to surrender control and trust Him more fully.
This process of change often happens gradually. Like the story of the man who used to react angrily when cut off in traffic but now finds himself waving instead, we may not always notice the changes immediately. But over time, as we consistently put God first, our reactions, attitudes, and entire way of living begin to shift.
It's important to remember that this transformation isn't something we can achieve on our own. It's the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives as we yield to God's leading. Our part is to be willing, to show up, and to continually choose to put God first in both the big decisions and the small moments of our days.
So how do we practically put God first in our lives?
1. Prioritize time with God: Make daily prayer and Bible reading a non-negotiable part of your routine.
2. Seek His guidance in decisions: Before making choices, big or small, pause to ask for God's wisdom and direction.
3. Serve others: Look for ways to put others' needs before your own, reflecting Christ's selfless love.
4. Be part of a faith community: Surround yourself with other believers who can encourage and challenge you in your faith journey.
5. Practice gratitude: Regularly thank God for His blessings, cultivating a heart of contentment rather than always wanting more.
6. Share your faith: Be open about your relationship with God, allowing others to see the difference He's making in your life.
Remember, the goal isn't to earn God's love or salvation - those are freely given through faith in Jesus Christ. Rather, putting God first is our response to His love, allowing His transformative power to work in and through us.
As you reflect on your own life, consider: What might be standing between you and fully surrendering to God? What "gods" are you hesitant to let go of? Are you willing to trust that God's plans for you are better than anything you could achieve on your own?
The invitation is clear: Come as you are, but don't leave as you came. Allow God to transform you from the inside out. It may not always be easy, and it will certainly require sacrifice at times. But the joy, peace, and purpose found in a life centered on God far outweigh anything we might give up.
In the words often attributed to C.S. Lewis, "I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else." When we put God first, our entire perspective shifts. We begin to see the world, ourselves, and others through His eyes. And in that transformation, we find the abundant life Jesus promised - not just for eternity, but starting right here and now.
Will you accept the invitation to transformation today?