7 Ways to Developing a God-First Mentality

By J’nan Tierney

Living out our faith isn’t easy, but we are not expected to do it all alone. God is always there to help us through (Isaiah 41:13). Perhaps the most important part of living out our faith is putting God first. Developing a God-first mentality begins with the acknowledgment that we need Him, all of the time. Every aspect of our existence should belong to His will, and it is truly in our best interest to submit ourselves to it (Romans 8:28).

I recently read an article that illustrated this concept perfectly: Failing to put God first is like buttoning your coat incorrectly. If you get the first button wrong, all the other buttons will line up wrong. When you put God first in your life, you are starting with the correct “button,” and all the other “buttons” in your life will line up as they should.

So, how can we make this concept actionable? It starts with practicing our faith in a deliberate and habitual manner. It means setting aside a predetermined time every day for prayer, meditation, reading His word—whatever makes you feel closely connected with God. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Create a daily verse card.

Take a moment each morning to write a Bible verse on an index card, sticky note or any type of stationery and carry it with you. Use it throughout the day when you need some guidance, reassurance or wisdom.

2. Read one Christian book a month.

Let someone else’s faith journey serve as a guide for your own. Fill your life with positive people who you would like to emulate.

3. Start a journal.

Write down your thoughts, prayers and reflections. Keep it near you during times of prayer, meditation, while reading scripture or bring it everywhere you go!

4. Pray throughout the day.

Hit the “pause button” periodically throughout the day and use that moment to offer praise, thanks or ask for guidance when making a decision.

5. Bring your struggles to God.

When you are not feeling at peace with something, whether it is big or small, bring it to Him. Then, let go and let God.

6. Make a gratitude list.

Creating an ongoing list of things you’re grateful for keeps the focus positive and on Jesus’ sacrifice for us.

7. Share the gospel.

Look for opportunities to share your knowledge of God’s Word. Sparking a conversation can serve to enlighten you further on your faith journey as well. Perhaps you can share your daily verse with a co-worker or family member.

How we choose to express our faith and devotion is up to each individual. There are many ways to do so; I hope you feel encouraged to explore ways which work best for you. I would love to share one of my favorite verses. I repeat it sometimes several times a day: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6, ESV).

J’nan Tierney lives in Bluffton with her husband, William, and her two children, Ellie (6) and Liam (3). She works part-time as a caregiver for seniors in our community. She enjoys hiking, disc golf, photography and taking on creative endeavors.