the order of things

"You can’t get second things by putting them first; you can get second 

things only by putting first things first.” C.S. Lewis

Let's face it, shortcuts can be seductive.  Ever go on one of those crash diets (where you eliminate...well, basically...FOOD) in hopes of quickly shedding some of those unwanted pounds? And the results?  No food may equal weight loss but it also usually comes with an increase in fatigue and crankiness, messing up your metabolism and all too often increased weight gain on the rebound. Not a dieter?? Well, have you ever tried to use a complicated new piece of technology without cracking open the directions first?  Unless you are some sort of techno wizard, fully utilizing today's technology without a little perusing of the "how-to" manual may leave you a little underwhelmed at the annoyingly non-intuitive nature of the “new and improved gadget”; a gadget, no doubt, that was supposed to make your life easier. 

My point (in case you missed it...) is getting the cart before the horse, more often than not, leaves you with a stationary cart and some really confused horses - am I right??  Well, that wasn't exactly my point, but my vast experience in subverting the order of things has seldom produced favorable results in the end.  So WHY then am I still tempted at times to ignore the order of things?  

I too easily relate to the writings of Paul in the book of Romans, when he talks about the conflict that resides within.  How the "right" things he wants to do are in tension with the things he ultimately finds himself doing at times.  In essence his spirit is warring with the rebellious nature of his will. This I find happens with far less consistency when I purpose to remember the true order of all things. 

More specifically, from a spiritual standpoint, Matthew 6:33 (NASB) says, "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." Or more plainly put - in the New Living Translation, "Seek first God's kingdom and what God wants. Then all your other needs will be met as well."  If I believe God's word to be true (and I do) then I must believe there is a divine order to things and it all starts with seeking God first. 

So why the compulsion to "do it my way" every now and again? (plug in whatever your it is here.)  It is easy to just chalk it up to living this side of heaven; quick fixes and short cuts rule the day.  But Paul goes on to say in the next chapter of Romans, that in Christ, this dilemma has been resolved. Not that left to our own devices we cease putting the cart before the horse, but that in walking with Him, the right order of things is set right.  


I have to say, my favorite part of Romans chapter 8 would have to be Paul concluding with "I'm absolutely convinced that nothing—nothing living or dead, angelic or demonic, today or tomorrow, high or low, thinkable or unthinkable—absolutely nothing can get between us and God's love."  Ah, the order of things...It all starts and ends with His great love for you and I - Ponder on...