Every new year begins with fresh plans, renewed motivation, and carefully written goals. We naturally pause to map out ambitions for our careers, finances, relationships, and personal growth, carefully outlining what we hope to achieve and how we intend to get there. Yet, in the midst of these visionary plans, one critical question often goes unasked: Where does God fit into our goals? While wise planning is necessary, it is possible to proceed with well-structured goals yet miss divine approval—“For not he who commends himself is approved, but whom the Lord commends” (2 Corinthians 10:18).

A God-first lifestyle positions us squarely on God’s bright side, aligning our hearts with His demands as priority will always earn His approval—“Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established” (Proverbs 16:3). This requests us to realign our aspirations, not by abandoning planning, but by placing God first—allowing His will to lead the course of our goals and ambitions. This calls for intentionality; we must examine our lives and identify the areas where God doesn’t take precedence, and ensure to restore Him to His rightful place. Here are some key areas to review:

1. Our Study

Aligning our hearts with God begins with knowing Him. We are ultimately a product of who we know and what we study. The Word is the ultimate guide for every goal, helping us discern God’s will in every area of life. There is no better time than now to commit to reading the entire Bible this year, deepening your understanding of His ways.

2. Our Conversation

Prayer is the heartbeat of a God-first lifestyle. Daily communication with God keeps us connected to His goodwill, invites His guidance, and allows us to bring our ambitions, challenges, and decisions before Him. It begins with a simple whisper, “Thank You Father, for the gift of a brand-new day,” “Father, I commit my day to Your able hands.”

3. Food

I agree fasting is more than abstaining from food, though the act of refraining from eating is its foundation. Fasting is a spiritual discipline that cultivates focus, self-control, and sensitivity to God’s voice. A consistent fasting life allows us to prioritise spiritual nourishment over worldly distractions.

4. Our Giving

Honouring God with our resources demonstrates trust, obedience, and gratitude. I’ve come to observe that many struggle with tithes and offerings, not because they doubt God’s word, but because they tend to prioritise settling personal bills, and give to God from only what is left. Giving tithes and offerings ensures that our hearts remain generous and God-centered, inviting His blessing and stewardship over all we do.

5. Storytelling

This one seems a bit funny. I remember back in school when a friend narrated a recently released movie to me in such vivid and detailed terms that I felt I didn’t even need to watch it. I told her then, if she channelled that same enthusiasm into soul-winning, many lives could be won for Christ. The truth is, we naturally tell the story of what we love, and sharing the gospel is both a privilege and a responsibility—one that allows us to impact eternity while reflecting God’s love to others.

6. Outing

I know we all need to go out and unwind; it’s great for our mental health, but prioritise going to church and gatherings of the saints. Fellowship with other believers strengthens faith, provides accountability, and encourages spiritual growth. Intentional participation in church gatherings, small groups, and spiritual communities keeps God at the centre of our social lives.

7. Our Service

God honours a heart that serves willingly. Engaging in acts of service, obeying His commands, and demonstrating love in practical ways reflect a God-first mindset and allow His light to shine through us.

When God truly comes first, nothing remains the same: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matt. 6:33). Prioritizing Him transforms not only our plans but the very trajectory of our year—shaping our decisions, refining our desires, and aligning our outcomes with His purpose. A God-first lifestyle is not partial or selective; it is wholehearted and intentional. As the saying goes, “He is either Lord of all, or not Lord at all.”