Seek First | Craig Curtis

Matthew 6:33 NIV

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

  

Romans 12:2a NIV

2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.

  

(same slide; no build)

"seek":

- to actively pursue

- to desire deeply

- to strive after

- to aim one's life toward

- to intentionally prioritize

  

Time with God should be a daily rhythm – not a distant priority.

  

Matthew 6:33 NIV

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

  

"Kingdom" means "governing."

  

"Righteousness" means "alignment" – being right with God.

  

2 Corinthians 5:21 NIV

21 God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

  

  

How to Have Better Relationships

1. Pre-decide who has priority in your life.

  

John 15:5 NIV

5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.

  

(same slide; build)

You don't produce fruit; you bear it.  You become it.

- To have good friends, you have to be a good friend.

- Finding the right person starts with becoming the right person.

  

How to Have Better Relationships

2. Maintain a rhythm of returning.

  

Romans 12:2a NIV

2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.

  

Habits don't change God's love for us; God's love for us changes our habits.

  

1. Pre-decide a time, place, and plan to start your day with Jesus.

2. Practice "pause prayers."

3. Get back in relationship with Jesus.

  

Matthew 14:30-32 NIV

30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”  31 Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” 32 And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down.