Fit For First

There was something special about being first - first in line, first to be chosen, first across the finish line. Jesus said, "seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness" (Matthew 6:33). He made it clear what is to be "first" in the hearts of His followers. There is, however, one problem before us: the elimination of the other "first" things. Read what Scripture calls us to consider: "What leads to [the unending] quarrels and conflicts among you? Do they not come from your desires that wage war in your [bodily] members [fighting for control over you]?" (James 4:1, AMP). Yes, there is indeed a continuous war within us - who or what will take first place in our lives. Think [again] back to childhood - first in line, first to be chosen, first across the finish line - there could only be one "first." No, "first" was shared or divided - "first" belonged to only one. So it is with what we pursue: we first seek "His righteousness" or we seek something else ... a different "first."  Unless we set aside all other loves and affections - surrender them - our "first" will not be the "first" priority. Jesus said, "If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me" (Matthew 16:24, ESV); He also said "And whoever does not take his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me" (Matthew 10:38, ESV). I suggest there is a "fitness" (a prerequisite) to Jesus being "first" in our lives; that is, a denying of ourselves! Jesus longs to be "first" in our lives; are you ... fit for first?