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Pursue What Matters Most
In the Book the “The Fourth quarter the author asks the question “What Matters Most” in your life? That is a personal question that should be answered in consultation with Christ. However. Let me ask you: What are you chasing after? How does it add value your life, your relationships, your relationship with God? In the book of Romans, Paul begs Christians to give their entire lives over to God because God sacrificed everything for them. Jesus gave up His life so that we could experience His unending love and grace. We cheapen His gifts if we refuse to align our lives with the way Jesus lived. But we give our lives to God by making Him the one thing we pursue above anything else.
As we come into this half of the year, I find it important that I have reminders and reviews of my pursues. So, here are some practical steps you can apply (right now) to help you put (and in this half of the year) keep God first:
Give Thanks
“We give thanks to you, O God; we give thanks, for your name is near. We recount your wondrous deeds.” Psalms 75:1. Right now, take a moment to thank God for what He’s already done for you. Reflect on His faithfulness and recount the stories you have seen and heard of His wonderful power.
Contemplate: spend 5 minutes in silence before God.
Be still and know that I am God (Psalms 46:10), “Abide in me, and I in you.” (John 15:4). Abiding in Jesus starts with stillness. So right now, pause, take a deep breath, and give anything concerning you over to God. Spend 5 minutes centering your heart on the One who matters most.
Remember whose you are:
“You are not your own, for you were bought with a price.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20.
God loves you. The price He paid for you cost Him everything. So, remind yourself of whose you are, and reflect on some of the things God says about you.
Meditate on the Word:
“Oh how I love your law! It is my meditation all day.” Psalms 119:97.
One of the best ways to find out how Jesus wants you to live is by spending time in Scripture. As you do, ask God to speak to you through His Word about what His will is.
Focus on what is Excellent
“…If there is any excellence… think about these things.” Philippians 4:8.
As our theme for the year states we are to advance in excellence! You have been given the mind of Christ. If you’re not sure what you should think about, try asking yourself:
What is praiseworthy?
What thoughts and actions would honor God?
Make a list of whatever comes to mind, prioritize and pursue those things.
By practicing these steps every day, you can create habits that will help you pursue intimacy with God and put Him first above everything else.
Quote: Don’t chase your dreams, Chase the God who has great dreams for you!
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