Putting God First, Again and Again

I'm currently reading through "Addictions: A Banquet in the Grave" for a class on biblical influence at my local church. It's the fifth piece we've had to read so far, and I think an (obvious) theme is coming out of these texts. Put God first.

In the discussion of addictions, relationships, and life struggles... we are more concerned about ourselves than anything else. But all of these books, sound biblical teaching, and even scripture itself, consistently emphasizes CHOOSING to put ourselves last. Instead of choosing to return conflict with conflict, choose the patient, rational, loving response. Instead of giving in to anger and self-satisfaction, choose the needs of others first. Instead of resorting to discouraging words or selfish actions, choose to give encouragement and sacrifice. In doing these, we are choosing to live for God first.

I emphasize choice in this because, while I've heard it many times before, I'm really starting to come to terms with the idea that we must choose to love. Love as a response to how someone treats you or how someone makes you feel (as in "falling in love") is far from ideal. Sure, it feels good, but it centers on what we can get, not what we can give.

Put God first each time and every time. That was His plan all along. Give first and get last!