“God’s kingdom agenda can be defined as the visible manifestation of the comprehensive rule of God over every area of life. . . . Jesus’ longest sermon in the Bible is specifically about the kingdom. [In] the centerpiece of that sermon . . . Jesus definitively explained how we are to view and position God’s kingdom in our lives. This principle is the foundation you will build on as your destiny takes shape.”- Dr. Tony Evans
“Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”- Matthew 6:33 (NASB)
In Chapter 2 (“Kingdom”) of Discover Your Destiny, Dr. Tony Evans wants the reader to focus on the word first in Matthew 6:33. Because your experience of God and His plans for you tends to diminish when you lose sight of the word first. God does not demand to be one among many of your top priorities. Rather, God says we must seek Him first.
Consequently, Dr. Evans explains why this failure to seek God first causes problems. He writes:
“The problem in most of our Christian lives, and the reason why many of us are not fully experiencing and living out our destinies, is that God and His kingdom are not first. Sure, He’s there. He’s in the vicinity. He’s one of the things on the list, but He’s not first. . . . Those who can’t seem to overcome their struggles frequently tell me the just don’t have time for God. My reply is always the same: ‘You make time for whatever is first in your life. If you don’t have time for God, He is not first.’ ”
For example, Tony stresses, we thank God for everything He’s given us. But, then we allow those very things we’re thankful for to cut in line ahead of Him – in our thoughts, time, and priorities.
Finally, Dr. Evans reminds us, Jesus’ directive to seek His kingdom first isn’t a request or a suggestion. Or something He hopes you’ll consider. As a result, to fully realize and live out your destiny, you must see Jesus’ statement as a nonnegotiable reality. Above all, God = first!
Today’s question: What Bible verses help you keep God’s kingdom agenda first in your life? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “The foundational principle for your destiny”
