Priorities Of a True Christian
For a true Christian, priorities should be ordered according to biblical principles that reflect God's intended design for life, discipleship, and stewardship.
1. Christ
Why First: Jesus is not just part of a Christian’s life; He is the center. Every other priority should flow from one's relationship with Him. Christ demands preeminence, not prominence.
Scripture:
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” – (Matthew 6:33)
“Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me...” – (Matthew 10:37)
“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me…” – (Galatians 2:20)
2. Family
Why Second: After God, the family is the first and most sacred human responsibility. The Christian's relationship with their spouse and children reflects their walk with Christ.
Scripture:
“But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith...” – (1 Timothy 5:8)
“Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church…” – (Ephesians 5:25)
“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” – (Ephesians 6:4)
3. Church
Why Third: The church is Christ's body (Ephesians 1:22–23), and believers are called not just to attend, but to serve and build it up. Active fellowship, worship, and service are essential parts of spiritual health.
Scripture:
“And let us not neglect meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another…” – (Hebrews 10:25)
“Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.” – (1 Corinthians 12:27)
4. Ministry
Why Fourth: Ministry is the outflow of our relationship with Christ and our role in the church and world. Every Christian is called to minister, whether formally or informally. However, it should never replace family or church obligations.
Scripture:
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another...” – (1 Peter 4:10)
“We are ambassadors for Christ…” – (2 Corinthians 5:20)
5. Career
Why Fifth: Work is a way to glorify God and provide for one's family, but it is not the source of identity or ultimate fulfillment. Career should serve the higher priorities, not compete with them.
Scripture:
“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” – (Colossians 3:23)
“Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work... so that he may have something to share...” – (Ephesians 4:28)
6. Friendship
Why Sixth: Friendship is a blessing and a tool for encouragement, accountability, and growth, but it should not take precedence over the family, church, or ministry.
Scripture:
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” – (Proverbs 17:17)
“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” – (Proverbs 27:17)
7. Money
Why Last: Money is a tool, not a goal. A Christian must manage it wisely and generously but never be ruled by it. It’s the love of money—not money itself—that is dangerous.
Scripture:
“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil...” – (1 Timothy 6:10)
“You cannot serve both God and money.” – (Matthew 6:24)
“Honor the Lord with your wealth...” – (Proverbs 3:9)