Matthew 6:33(KJV)
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

This is a quote by Jesus that I meditate on constantly. Especially in the beginning I would wonder if this statement is really true. One thing I love about getting older with the Lord is that I acquire more experience of his faithfulness. Just like an intimate relationship, the hardest part is probably after the honeymoon period is over and now you must learn to live daily with a new partner that is vastly different from your ways. Unlike a human relationship, this union is a divine one and no matter what you believe and know, Jesus is always correct. Therefore when I have a tough time with his ways I ask for understanding and clarity. 

For example, self-denial, serving those that offend me, putting others before myself, etc. are still great challenges for me. I’m far from perfect but I rely on the great grace of God to help me obey the leading of the Holy Spirit to live out love and mercy. I’ve also learned to live one day at a time depending on God’s amazing grace. Besides, we are suppose to live life this way anyway.*

As I’ve lived my life seeking first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, I’ve witnessed all these others things that used to consume me added onto me. (Some examples of these other things are fancy vacations, clothing, parties, being popular, looking good, money and status, etc.) However now, these things are no longer so important to me. There’s great freedom when the enemy can not use these things to steal my peace and joy. 

There’s another quote by Jesus that was so hard to accept in the beginning. 
John 12:24-26 (NLT)
I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels—a plentiful harvest of new lives. Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity. Anyone who wants to serve me must follow me, because my servants must be where I am. And the Father will honor anyone who serves me.

I’ve discovered that this is true too. Now I see that our Father doesn’t just leave you in the dirt to only die. There’s great life, hope and honor that shoots out from death to self. It’s a painful process but this is where I’ve learned to call Jesus not only my Savior, but my Lord. Jesus became the Lord of my life.

One day I’ll look back at this blog entry and see even more how good and faithful our God is. Whenever life get frustrating, tough, or I’m just tired from waiting I always love going back to my favorite promises. I’ll share few: 

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Psalm 34:8
Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!

Psalm 37:3-4
Trust in the Lord, and do good;
Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness.
Delight yourself also in the Lord,
And He shall give you the desires of your heart.

*Matthew 6:34 (ESV)
“Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”

I’ll be praying for you. Please pray for me too! Thank you. Xoxo