Love God First, Then Love People — The Natural Order That Brings Life

Love God First, Then Love People — The Natural Order That Brings Life
When Jesus was asked for the greatest commandment, He didn’t give us a task list—He gave us a relationship: Love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength—and from that place love people (Matthew 22:36–38; Luke 10:27). In this message we contrast Martha’s hurry with Mary’s devotion (Luke 10:38–42) and Mary’s costly worship with Judas’s “practical” excuse (John 12:1–8). The call is simple and costly: God first—then everything else finds its place. No more excuses. Realignment begins today.
Big Idea
Putting people’s desires (or our tasks, image, and gain) before God always leads to spiritual dysfunction. When we put God first, our families, priorities, and callings begin to thrive.
Key Scriptures
Matthew 22:36–38 (NASB 2020) — The greatest commandment
Luke 10:38–42 — Mary chooses “the one necessary thing”
John 12:1–8 — Mary’s costly worship vs. Judas’s excuse
Core Points
The First Order: Love God with all—heart, soul, mind, strength.
Devotion over Distraction: Mary chose the “good part” that won’t be taken.
Worship over “Practical” Excuses: God is always a worthy landing place for your affection and treasure.
The Natural Order: God → Family → Everything else.
Fearless Inventory: If there’s an excuse present, repent and realign.
Personal Reflection
Where have “necessary tasks” crowded out necessary devotion?
What “practical” excuse has kept you from costly worship?
How can you realign time, talents, and treasure this week to put God first?
Husbands/Wives/Parents/Children: what’s one step to restore God’s order at home?
Next Steps
Respond in prayer: “Father, I return my heart, soul, mind, and strength to You. Realign my life to Your order.”
Share this message with someone who needs hope and clarity.
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