The mantra “first things first” is something I first discovered studying the works of Peter F. Drucker and Stephen R. Covey. Both men touted the importance of addressing the most significant concern of the day first.
For me, as a Christian, I’ve learned as my prayer life goes, so goes my day. Therefore, the most important thing I can do on any day starts with prayer. I’ve repeatedly discovered the perils of not praying, especially to begin my day. When I don’t pray, I pay.
Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Mark 1:35, NIV
A friend shared with me that he now prays before his feet hit the floor in the morning. Not out of piousness, but because after years of learning that this fundamental step directs the course of his day.
Through trial and error, I have found failing to pray first equates to walking out onto the battlefield and forgetting your shield or suiting up for the big game and leaving your helmet in the locker room. It is just unwise, especially for a person of faith.
Connecting and communing with the God of the Universe is the most important thing I can do on any given day. So, like my friend, I strive to do it before letting my feet hit the floor because like him, I have learned the hard way that my time in prayer drives my day. It directs my path; it provides me strength, and it keeps me focused on the One who my heart desires to please most. For as John Piper so eloquently surmised: God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him.
What is the most important item of the day on your list? My encouragement to you is to consider beginning your day with prayer. Who knows, we may just change the world. I pray you’ll have a great week in the Lord!
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, ESV
The Devotional Guy™ 