Have you ever wondered what life could be like if you only learned how to put God first in everything you do? Imagine waking up each day with peace, knowing your choices are guided by Someone who loves you unconditionally.
Knowing how to put God first in your life isn’t about perfection but building a relationship that brings meaning and direction to your life.
Maybe you are asking, “How can I do that?” It starts with small steps–praying before a big test, thanking God for a good day, or choosing kindness when it’s hard.
As you learn how to put God first in your life, let Him lead your decisions, even when it’s not the easiest path. It’s like building a solid foundation for a house; without it, everything else crumbles.
This article will show you how to put God in your life in simple yet powerful ways. Are you ready to discover the amazing things that happen when you let God take the lead? Let’s dive in!\
“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand.” – Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT)
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What Does It Mean to Put God First in Your Life?
To put God first, pray and let God know that you are struggling in this area. Explain that you find it hard to find enough hours in the day to fit everything in. Be honest about your concerns! He will help you find a way to juggle it all!
Helpful resource: Making Time For God With A Busy Schedule
Knowing how to put God first in your life can also mean reading the Bible regularly. Scripture guides us in making good decisions through the lessons and living a life that pleases God. By spending time in His Word, you will grow closer to Him and learn to trust Him more daily.
“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong and teaches us to do what is right.” – 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NLT)
Why Put God First in Your Life?
What is the importance of learning how to put God first? Well, making God a priority means trusting Him to lead and help you. When you start each day with prayer and time in His Word, you open your heart to His wisdom and love.
Building your life on God makes you stronger through tough times.
When you understand how to put God first in all things, everything will fall into place – the way God intends it to.
If you are new and need to learn ways to build that one-on-one relationship with God, this four-part series can help.
“Therefore, everyone who hears these words of Mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” – Matthew 7:24 (NIV)
How to Put God First in Your Life (23 Practical Ways)
When you learn how to put God first in your life, you will know how to stay focused, how to reduce stress, and how to experience peace – even during trials.
One of the simplest ways to put God first is to read the Bible daily. Read more about Bible study, especially if you are new to Bible study.
Scripture is full of wisdom, guidance, and comfort. Spending time in God’s Word helps you grow spiritually and makes it easier to handle life’s challenges.
One way to master the skill of learning how to put God first is to attend church. Worshipping with others helps you stay connected to God and reminds you of His presence.
To best know how to put God first in your life, let us explore 23 practical ways to help you grow in faith and live a life centered around Him.
“Your Word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalm 119:105 (NIV)
#1. Start Your Day With Prayer
The first step in learning how to put God first in everything you do is to start your day with prayer. Prayer connects you with God and asks for His guidance. When you wake up, take a moment to talk to God about your plans and worries.
If you need to learn how to pray, check out this guide on How to Pray for Beginners.
When you pray, thank God for your blessings. Then, ask for guidance. Simply, heartfelt prayers are enough–God hears you. Prayer also involves listening. After sharing your heart, take time to listen to Him. God promises that when you seek Him, He will be there.
Prayer helps you focus on God’s plans, not your own. It is also a way to keep Him involved in every daily decision. Invite His presence into all you do.
“When you call out to Me and ask Me for help, I will answer you. You will search for Me, and when you search for Me with all your heart, you will find Me.” – Jeremiah 29:12-13 (CEV)
Starting your day with prayer helps you focus on what matters most. It sets a positive tone for your day and enables you to make better choices. So, take a moment each morning to talk to God. Trust that He will guide you through whatever challenges you may face!
End your day by thanking God for answered prayers and blessings. Gratitude brings you closer to Him and keeps your heart centered on His Guidance.
“Listen to my voice in the morning, Lord. Each morning I bring my requests to You and wait expectantly.” – Psalm 5:3 (NLT)
#2. Read the Bible Daily
Another way to master the art of learning how to put God first is to read God’s Word every day. This helps you get closer to Him. Start with a few verses or a short chapter, and consider how it fits your life. This daily habit keeps your heart on God’s truth and prepares you for challenges.
Do not just read the Bible–live it! Apply what you learn to your choices and relationships. God’s Word is there to guide, comfort, and help you grow. Your faith will grow stronger when you put it into action, which enables you to grow closer to God and understand His plan for your life. It is full of wisdom and guidance for making good decisions.
“Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it.” – Joshua 1:8 (NIV)
Check this resource to learn where to start reading the Bible.
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalm 119:105 (NLT)
#3. Attend Church Regularly
Attending church will greatly help you learn how to put God first. Church is a place to worship, learn, and connect with other believers, reminding you of God’s love and purpose. Church strengthens your faith and encourages you to live for Him.
If you are attending church for the first time or looking for a new church home, check out this article on Going to Church.
“Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encourage one another.” – Hebrews 10:25 (NIV)
#4. Serve Others
Serving others is a great way to practice the art of knowing how to put God first. It shows His love and follows Jesus’ example of humility.
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” — Mark 10:45 (NIV)
Serving helps us grow closer to God and others, positively impacting and strengthening our faith.
Check this article on ways to serve as a volunteer.
“Serve one another humbly in love.” – Galatians 5:13 (NIV)
#5. Trust God With Your Decisions
Trusting God with your decisions means relying on His wisdom instead of our own. It shows you believe God knows what is best for you. There’s no greater way to put God first than to trust Him.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
When you trust God, you seek His guidance and have peace knowing He’s in control. Trusting Him leads to the right path.
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” – James 1:5 (NIV)
#6. Set Aside Time For Worship
Another way to know how to put God first is through worship, which is a powerful way to impact your relationship with God. It helps you focus on, thank, and grow closer to Him.
Whether through prayer, singing, or quiet time, worship strengthens your connection with God. It is an act of love, gratitude, and devotion.
“Give unto the Lord the glory due to His name; Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness.” – James 4:8, (NKJV)
Setting aside time for worship shows God is your priority, realigning your heart with His. Worship helps you trust God and grow your faith.
“God is spirit, and His worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” – John 4:24 (NIV)
#7. Pray Before Making Big Decisions
Knowing how to put God first is the key to making big decisions. Prayer helps you connect with God, seek wisdom, and find clarity.
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault.” – James 1:5 (NIV)
Prayer calms your mind and invites God into your choices. Trusting His plan leads to the best outcome.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5 (NIV)
Along with prayer, seek advice from trusted people to gain more insight.
“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed.” – Proverbs 15:22 (NIV)
Listen for God’s guidance in your heart and through others.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.” – Romans 8:28 (NIV)
#8. Prioritize Spiritual Growth
Another way to put God first in your life is by prioritizing spiritual growth, which will strengthen your faith and your relationship with God. It involves learning about Him, reading His Word, and growing.
“But grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” – 2 Peter 3:18 (NIV)
Prayer opens your heart to God’s wisdom and strength.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6 (NIV)
One way to learn how to put God first in your life is to join a faith community that helps you grow and share God’s love.
“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24 ((NIV)
#9. Surrender Your Worries to God
As we learn how to put God first, we begin trusting Him entirely and allowing Him to lead every part of our lives. It’s about surrendering control and believing that His wisdom will guide us.
Trusting God means letting go of worry and knowing He controls everything. Also, trusting God brings peace, clarity, and assurance that He will guide us through every challenge.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5 (NIV)
When we pray, express gratitude, and read Scripture, we strengthen our faith and shift our focus to God’s promises.
“Cast all your cares on the Lord, and He will sustain you.” – Psalm 55:22 (NIV)
#10. Tithe and Give Generously
Another way to learn how to put God is through tithing and giving generously. Tithing is giving a portion of our income, specifically 10%, to God through the local church.
When we tithe, we show God that we trust Him with our money. Giving is an act of faith, knowing that God will provide for us.
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. “ – 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NIV)
Tithing is not just about money but about trusting God. When we give, we bless others, show love, and receive blessings in return.
“A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” – Proverbs 11:25 (NIV)
#11. Forgive Others
As you learn how to put God first, you’ll understand the importance of giving forgiveness. It is easy to stay angry when we are hurt, but God wants us to forgive, just as He forgives us. Forgiveness means letting go of anger and choosing kindness.
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)
Forgiving does not mean saying the wrong was okay; it means freeing ourselves from the pain. It helps us heal and grow stronger.
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” – Matthew 6:14-15 (NIV)
#12. Be Thankful for All Things
Being thankful helps us see the good in life, even during tough times. God wants us to be grateful for everything, big and small. If you’d like to put God first, thank Him on a daily basis!
Gratitude shifts our focus from problems to blessings. Even on hard days, find small things to be thankful for, like a smile, a warm meal, or a favorite song.
Being thankful makes us happier. Keep a gratitude journal to remind yourself of God’s blessings.
“Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NIV)
#13. Set Boundaries Around Your Time
Setting boundaries around our time helps us live a balanced life. God gives us time as a gift, and we should use it wisely. Boundaries protect our time so we can focus on what matters.
Saying “NO” to time-wasting activities allows us to focus on goals and grow. To stay balanced, set limits for rest, work, school, family, and faith. By protecting our time, we can live a happier, more peaceful life.
“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” – Psalm 90:12 (NIV)
#14. Surround Yourself with a Christian Community
Put God first in your life by having a Christian community to grow in faith. Friends who love Jesus help us make good choices and stay strong during tough times.
Christian friends support and encourage us, guiding us in faith. They remind us of God’s truth and help when we stumble.
“Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor; If either of them falls down, one can help the other one up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NIV)
Spending time with believers strengthens us through prayer, church, and Bible study. Surround yourself with people who lift you and strengthen your faith journey.
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” – Proverbs 27:17 (NIV)
#15. Meditate on Scripture
Meditation of God’s Word helps transform our thoughts and actions. As you learn how to put God first, you will want to incorporate this spiritual practice.
Reflecting on Scripture gives us wisdom and guidance, helping us see life through God’s eyes. Meditation deepens our relationship with God and allows the Holy Spirit to lead us.
Start by memorizing a verse each week. Reflect on its meaning and apply it to your life. Memorized Scripture not only helps you but also encourages others in their struggles.
By sharing God’s Word, we offer comfort and remind others of His presence.
“But whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on His law day and night – Psalm 1:2-3 (NIV)
#16. Obey God’s Commands
Another way to put God first is by obeying God’s commands, which means following His teachings to live wisely and love others.
Obeying God shows our love for Him and trust in His way. We are imperfect, but God helps and forgives us when we mess up.
Jesus summed up God’s commands: Love God and love your neighbor. Jesus further simplified these teachings into just two commandments.
“Love the Lord you God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” – Matthew 22:37-39 (NIV)
Obeying God brings happiness, protects us, and sets an excellent example for others.
“If you love Me, keep my commands” – John 14:15 (NIV)
#17. Keep a Prayer Journal
Prayer is talking to God, sharing your heart, and asking for guidance. A prayer journal helps make prayer a daily habit.
Write down prayers, Bible verses, worries, and blessings. Date your prayers to remember God’s answers and see how He responds.
“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done.” – Philippians 4:6 (NLT)
Knowing how to put God in your life through a prayer journal strengthens faith, helps you pray boldly, and shows trust in God’s care. Make it a daily habit, and watch God work!
“Pray without ceasing: – 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (ESV)
#18. Listen to Worship Music
Worship music helps us feel closer to God by praising His love, mercy, and power. It reminds us of His greatness and brings peace, especially during tough times.
“Sing to the Lord, all the earth; proclaim His salvation day after day.” – 1 Chronicles 16:23 (NIV)
Worship music fills our minds with God’s truth and joy, shifting our focus from problems to His promises – encouraging, comforting, and strengthening our faith.
Listening to or singing worship music helps us trust God and find peace in challenging times.
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable….” Philippians 4:8 (HCSB)
#19. Fast and Pray
Fasting and prayer are powerful ways to help you learn how to put God first. Fasting means giving up food or something you enjoy and focusing on God during that time.
Matthew 6:16-18 teaches us to fast quietly, not to show off, and trust that God will reward us. Fasting helps us hear God’s voice clearly and understand His will.
Isaiah 58:6-7 shows that fasting leads us to help others and grow in kindness. Putting God first builds self-control and reminds us that God is our strength.
As you pray during your fast, ask yourself, “What is God asking me to change?” Fasting and prayer deepen our faith and help us trust God more.
“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” – James 4:8 (ESV)
#20. Avoid Distractions That Pull You Away From God
In our busy lives, it is easy to get distracted from God. Social media, television, games, and even chores can pull us away from Him.
God wants us to be close. We resist distractions and grow our faith by setting specific prayer and Bible reading times.
Turn off distractions, find a quiet place, and ask God how to best put Him first.
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”- 1 Peter 5:8 (NIV)
#21. Share Your Faith With Others
Sharing your faith means telling others about Jesus and His love.
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…” – Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)
Share your story of how Jesus has helped you. Your story can inspire others and show them God’s love. Put God first in your life by inviting friends to church or sharing a Bible verse to help them understand God’s love.
Be bold–your words can change lives!
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16 (NIV)
#22. Make Time For Rest
Taking time to rest is vital for our bodies and minds. God created the Sabbath as a special day to focus on Him and rest from work.
Sabbath rest recharges us, helping us feel closer to God and teaching us how to really put Him first in all things. Our relationship with God is like recharging a phone–we need it to stay strong.
“Then He said to them, ‘The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.’” – Mark 2:27 (NIV)
The Sabbath is a way to put God first and appreciate God’s blessings, family, and nature. Rest is a gift.
Not sure how to rest on the Sabbath? Read this article on Sabbath rest.
“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.” – Exodus 20:8 (NIV)
#23. Celebrate God’s Goodness
Celebrating God’s goodness shows gratitude for His blessings and will help you put God first.
“Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name.” – Psalm 100:4 (NIV)
Reflecting on God’s love fills us with joy and strengthens our faith.
“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” – Psalm 107:1 (NIV)
Family traditions help us remember God’s kindness. Acts of kindness, like encouraging notes, also spread joy.
How do you put God first in your life? Celebrate God’s goodness daily with gratitude and love.
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases.” – Lamentations 3:22 (NIV)
Conclusion
You have now learned how to put God first. This must be a daily commitment. It will transform your heart and deepen your faith.
It’s about prioritizing your relationship with Him in every aspect of your life–through prayer, studying His Word, trusting His plan, and reflecting His love in your actions.
As you make these steps part of your routine, you’ll experience a stronger connection with God and a sense of peace and purpose that only He can provide. When you put God first, everything else falls into place according to His perfect will.
“Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:33 (NIV)
