Advent Devotional

It’s painfully ironic that Christmas, which ought to be a time of peace, joy, and celebration, is widely recognized as a time of stress, busyness, and depression.  At the core, I suspect our priorities are the cause of such angst.  In this passage, however, Jesus gives the solution! 
The most important word in these verses might be the word “first.”  Who or what has first place in our lives?  When we wake up in the morning, what is the first thing we think about?  As we begin our daily routine, what is the first thing we seek?  What is the first, most important priority of life?

Jesus explains that it ought to be seeking the kingdom of God and his righteousness.  In other words, God’s priorities need to become our priorities, and his holiness needs to become our holiness.  If we seek and pursue those two things with all our might, here’s the amazing result.  God promises to provide for all our needs!  And we won’t have to worry about a thing.  If you find yourself worrying today, maybe your priorities are out of whack.

For Reflection & Discussion: What are you really seeking first in life?

Prayer: Father, forgive me for loving lesser things… and for neglecting the greater things in life. Please change my heart and my priorities.  Align them with your will.  Help me to seek your kingdom and your righteousness first.  I pray that you would be my greatest treasure and delight.