First Things First

I am a “To Do” list person. Lists of activities for each day of the week are set up. Categorized lists of things I need to do are regularly made. Post-it notes for me were a wonderful invention because at least the little pieces of paper with my precious lists were no longer scattered everywhere. They are just stuck to everything. My latest discovery for my home lists is the half-sized legal pad. Those relatively small yellow pads are the perfect size for several related lists on one page! Ingenious.

It sounds like I am a list maniac. Maybe I am, but it is the only way I can remember the various things I intend to do. “Things I intend to do” is the key phrase. Most of the things on my lists do not get done. You see, I have many good intentions but so little time and energy. After looking at an item on my list for several days, I either gain perspective and eliminate it or I realize it is something that will have to wait for some time in the far future.

My lists do help me prioritize my activities so the most pressing items are completed. Admittedly on some days the pressing items get set aside just because I need some relaxation and fun. You see, I am human.

One thing is never on my “To Do” list. It has become so ingrained that it no longer needs to be listed. That is my morning time with my Lord. Granted sometimes it is a short time but on a “nonscheduled” day it may last until the middle of the morning. What a blessing!

It took some time—a length of time making myself set aside a specific amount of time—to develop the habit of seeking God first every day. Now it is no longer a habit. It is a need. I feel unclean—disconcerted--off balance--if I do not spend at least several minutes and preferably and hour with my God and Savior before rushing into the flurry of daily activity.

So, first thing in the morning, I read something from God’s word, meditate on it, maybe do a bit of memory work, and I pray.

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33 NIV

Lord, thank you for preparing me for each day. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, show me how to glorify you to others today.