Priorities

Scripture: Matthew 6:33 NIV

Introduction

Most of us have our own set of priorities. For some,they might include family, job, friends, church and / or recreation. For others, they might be the next fix, the next sexual encounter, the big business deal, etc.

I. What it means to seek first the kingdom

Luke 18:29-30 NKJV So He said to them, "Assuredly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or parents or brothers or wife or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God, 30 "who shall not receive many times more in this present time, and in the age to come eternal life."

A. Knowing God is more important than anything else

B. Anything which interferes with my relationship with God must either change or be eliminated from my life

C My lifestyle must change to accommodate my new priority

1. Habits

2. Relationships

3. Morals

4. Ethics

II. Dealing with the conflict caused by seeking first the kingdom

Matthew 10:34-36 NKJV "Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword. 35 "For I have come to 'set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law'; 36 "and 'a man's enemies will be those of his own household.'

A. Expect others to become angry when you follow God's agenda for your life instead of theirs

B. Be prepared to sever spiritually damaging relationships with others

III. How to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness

Colossians 3:1-5 NIV Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry.

A. Ask yourself, "What must change in my life to make my relationship with Jesus Christ my first priority?"

B. Resolve to cooperate with the Holy Spirit as he convicts you

C. Ask God to give you His grace to help you become a "kingdom person"

D. Study and obey the word of God as it teaches you to live righteously