“Put God First” is a catch phrase commonly used in the Church of God to describe a Christian’s life decisions to set their spiritual priorities straight. Many, including myself, have used this as a motto for my life. But I believe this expression means so much more than we have given it credit for.

At the Feast of Tabernacles in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, last year, Steve Myers gave a sermon titled, “Times of Refreshing Restoration” that I will never forget. In it he compared the facets of our lives to a beautiful dresser cabinet with drawers that are filled with our responsibilities and values. They can be placed from top to bottom, and these drawers may even be different sizes depending on what we value and focus on the most.

We may have a family drawer, a hanging out drawer, a work drawer, etc. But do we have a “God drawer” or a “spiritual drawer”? Do we consider our relationship with God and spiritual life the top and biggest drawer of our cabinet?

If we do, then we are mistaken on what it really means to put God first.

Putting God first means that God is the Creator and framer of our cabinet, and that He defines every aspect of our lives. His way of life and standards are the frames that all of our drawers need to fit into. If they don’t, then we need to change whatever we are truly putting first in our lives.

Jesus Christ said in Luke 14:26, “You cannot be my disciple, unless you love me more than you love your father and mother, your [spouse] and children, and your brothers and sisters. You cannot come with me unless you love me more than you love your own life” (CEV).

As we “seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness,” let us love God and make Him the frame that defines every aspect of our lives (Matthew 6:33). Put God first.