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

A layman was making a call on a wealthy businessman, asking him to help in the Lord's work. The man wrote a check for $250 and handed it to him. Just then someone in his office brought in a message. The business read it with dismay.

"This message tells me I have just suffered a great loss," he said. "It makes a great difference in my affairs. I shall have to write you another check."

"I understand," said the layman and handed back the $250 check."

The business's checkbook was still open. He wrote another check and handed it to the layman, who read it with amazement.

"But this check is for $1000," he gasped. "Haven't you made a mistake?"

"No," said the businessman. "That message was really from God. It read, 'Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth'" (Matthew 6:19).

That man had his priorities in proper order. He had placed the kingdom of God first and his material affairs second.

How often do we put ourselves first and the "things that come from the Spirit of God" (1 Corinthians 2:14) second?

God says, "My son, give Me your heart and let your eyes keep to My ways" (Proverbs 23:26). Oh, may we always lovingly respond, "With all my heart...I will obey Your decrees" (Psalm 119:145).

Summed up, always place Jesus first, Others second, and Yourself third. Then you will truly have J-O-Y.

--Helping people live life with Jesus everyday,