Four Ways to Put God First
4 Ways to Put God First
by Brandon Jubar
It's easy to become obsessed. In fact, it's almost expected these days. Everywhere you look there are examples of people living their lives to excess -- and it's not just going overboard with bad things, either. Drugs, alcohol, sex -- these are things that normally come to mind when we think of "excess". But even "good" things can become bad in large quantities.
Studying is usually a good thing. In fact, most parents would agree that their children should do more of it. But what about the people who only study, to the exclusion of all else? Holed up in their rooms, opting out of all social or extra-curricular activities? Is that good?
Or what about the athlete whose life revolves around his or her sport of choice? He plays football, watches football, runs a fantasy football league, kicks butt at Madden Football (and has the latest version), plans on playing college football, and hopes to go pro some day. Nothing matters to him unless it has something to do with football. Is that good? "I, the LORD, am your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, that place of slavery. You shall not have other gods besides me." (Exodus 20:2-3, NAB)
Whenever we focus on something -- or someone -- to the exclusion of all else, we are basically worshipping a false god. Whether it is drugs, sex, sports, academics, or a loved one, the net effect is the same: God takes a backseat.
But have no fear -- all is not lost. With a few simple steps you'll have God front and center, right where He belongs!
#1: Do Kind Things (Quietly)
Start easy by doing some nice things. Hold the door for someone. Take out the trash without being asked. Carry someone's books. Give little compliments whenever you can (e.g. "I like that shirt", "You sure know your stuff", or "Good job!") Whatever you do, never mention what you're doing to anyone. And if someone points it out, just shrug it off and change the subject -- then continue to do kind
by Brandon Jubar
It's easy to become obsessed. In fact, it's almost expected these days. Everywhere you look there are examples of people living their lives to excess -- and it's not just going overboard with bad things, either. Drugs, alcohol, sex -- these are things that normally come to mind when we think of "excess". But even "good" things can become bad in large quantities.
Studying is usually a good thing. In fact, most parents would agree that their children should do more of it. But what about the people who only study, to the exclusion of all else? Holed up in their rooms, opting out of all social or extra-curricular activities? Is that good?
Or what about the athlete whose life revolves around his or her sport of choice? He plays football, watches football, runs a fantasy football league, kicks butt at Madden Football (and has the latest version), plans on playing college football, and hopes to go pro some day. Nothing matters to him unless it has something to do with football. Is that good? "I, the LORD, am your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, that place of slavery. You shall not have other gods besides me." (Exodus 20:2-3, NAB)
Whenever we focus on something -- or someone -- to the exclusion of all else, we are basically worshipping a false god. Whether it is drugs, sex, sports, academics, or a loved one, the net effect is the same: God takes a backseat.
But have no fear -- all is not lost. With a few simple steps you'll have God front and center, right where He belongs!
#1: Do Kind Things (Quietly)
Start easy by doing some nice things. Hold the door for someone. Take out the trash without being asked. Carry someone's books. Give little compliments whenever you can (e.g. "I like that shirt", "You sure know your stuff", or "Good job!") Whatever you do, never mention what you're doing to anyone. And if someone points it out, just shrug it off and change the subject -- then continue to do kind