START THE YEAR OFF PUTTING GODLY THINGS 1ST

The Idea

How can you step out in faith if you don’t first believe by faith? It is hard to do something if you don’t take the first step. Take the disciples, for instance: how were they going to obey Jesus and do what He commanded by faith unless they first believed that He was who He claimed to be?

The Point
You know, sometimes in life we get focused on the details—what we are pursuing on earth—instead of who we are pursuing in heaven. (Matthew 6:33) We often focus on believing in God for more money or a better job, rather than focusing on Him and His kingdom.

I have had it happen time and time again where I am asking God for more funds for my life or the ministry. It feels like what we have isn't enough, but sure enough, instead of God giving me more, He asks me to sacrifice more, or a bill goes down. In essence, God shows me what was already there. All I have to do is seek Him first and trust Him, rather than getting so focused on my earthly wants.

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"Outcomes aren't your responsibility, faithfulness is."

- Shane Philip (Guest at Central Christian Church (AZ) on 11/9/25)