5 Days From God's Purpose for Your Life by Dr. StanleyExemplo

JESUS FIRST

Every day, we have a choice to make about what kingdom we’re serving—either God or ourselves. When we put ourselves and our desires first, that means we’re putting Him last—and He will return the favor in His kingdom. So we should not seek great things for ourselves here, but do as God asks us, making Him our priority.

Because the truth is this life is a breath, and there’s far more coming than we can imagine. Remember: “We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be recompensed . . . according to what he has done, whether good or bad” (2 Corinthians 5:10). For the believer, this is not unto salvation, because if you’ve accepted Jesus as your Savior, you are assured heaven. However, what’s being evaluated are the rewards for how we served Christ here—and that will shape how we live in heaven.

The challenge for you is to realize that right now you are setting the tone for eternity—the authority and privileges you’ll have forever. So put Jesus first. Humble yourself now, and He will lift you up.

Jesus, You are my priority. Lead me in how to serve You well. Amen.