“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” — Matthew 6:33 (NKJV)
Putting God first isn’t just a principle—it’s a priority that reshapes everything. It’s the filter we live through, the foundation we build on, and the anchor we return to. And it’s not something we just believe—it’s something our children need to see.
In a culture obsessed with hustle, independence, and achievement, “God first” often becomes a slogan instead of a lifestyle. But when we say God comes first, we’re not just talking about Sunday mornings—we’re talking about every morning. Every decision. Every dollar. Every opportunity. It means we acknowledge Him in our planning, our parenting, our priorities, and even in the way we respond when things don’t go as planned.
One of the most important things we can model for our children is that God isn’t an addition to life—He is life. When they see us start our day in the Word or pause to pray when decisions come up, when they hear us give thanks and talk about what God is doing, it shapes their understanding of what it means to walk with Him.
We show them He is first in our time when we make space for Scripture, prayer, and worship—not out of obligation, but desire. He is first in our talent when we offer our gifts back to Him, whether it’s teaching, serving, creating, or leading, and use them to bless others. He is first in our treasure when we give with open hands, trusting Him to provide and choosing to invest in eternity rather than cling to what we think we’ve earned.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding;
In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” — Proverbs 3:5–6 (NKJV)
Children quickly pick up on what really matters to us. They know what we cancel everything for. They know what we give our best energy and attention to. And when they see us consistently return to the Lord for guidance, correction, and strength, it teaches them that life isn’t just about us. It’s about aligning with the One who made us.
When God is first, everything else finds its place. Marriage, work, parenting, rest, even trials—they all come under His care and leading. That doesn’t mean life becomes easy. But it does mean we aren’t chasing after peace, purpose, and provision in all the wrong places.
Putting God first in family life requires intention. We have to clear space for the things that matter. We have to turn down the volume of the world. And we have to be willing to say no to things—even good things—so that we don’t miss the best things He has for us.
“The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way.” — Psalm 37:23 (NKJV)
So this week, take a look at your calendar. Your conversations. Your heart. What comes first? And what do your children see?
It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being surrendered. It’s about turning again and again toward the One who holds your family in His hands and saying, “Lead us, Lord. We want to follow You.”
A Challenge for the Week:
What would it look like to actually put God first in your home this week?
Here are two simple ways to begin:
- Start your day together with God. Read a short Scripture, pray aloud, or listen to a worship song during breakfast or the car ride. If it’s just you, set aside a few first moments to acknowledge Him before the day begins.
- Let your priorities show what matters most. Whether it’s how you spend your evening, how you handle an unexpected change, or what you say yes or no to—let your choices reflect that God’s ways come first.
Next Week: Life Isn’t Just About You
We’ll reflect on teaching our children to live beyond themselves, love others well, and find joy in serving.
