What's my Priority?

In his book Too Busy Not to Pray, Bill Hybels tells a story of a young single unemployed man who came to him in deep despair having not found a job after several months. In fact he stated that this wasn’t even the worst of it. He continued, “I feel so lonely in this. Nobody in the church cares. Sometimes I think God doesn’t care. I feel totally hopeless and helpless.” Hybels responded with questions about the man’s habits. Was he feeding his faith? How often did he pray and commune with God? Did he regularly attend church services or place himself around Christians? Was he reaching out to meet other’s needs? The man quickly quibbled, “I just can’t find the time.” Hybels then reminded him that being unemployed and single meant that he was probably richer in time than any other resource.

As harsh as it may seem, when it comes to looking for answers in our often-confusing circumstances, God’s presence is regularly seen as a sort of “magic wand.” Wanting him to bring courage and strength without forming the habits that increase spiritual health are ripe ingredients for the creation of a misappropriated blame game. In an often unstable and confusing situation, God is much more about my holiness than my happiness. He will see me through, in his time and way, but only a connection to his line of sight through a steadfast and steady perseverance will bring clarity. Ordering our priorities around his is essential.

             Below are just a few of the priorities rendered in God’s Word:

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Matthew 6:33

At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them. Matthew 18:1-2 

 Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:38-42

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2 

Today God is calling us to prioritize the work of the Christian. To the world this may appear to be off-task, a distraction, or even a waste of time. But Jesus is calling us to a work that is wholly different than our typical shortsighted “fix it” mentality. It requires allowing him to set the docket. It places him in the center of all endeavors. It asks the question, “Who is my priority?” Will you join me in prioritizing the presence of our Father in prayer today?

Pastor John