Today we will talk about bible verses about putting god first. Many Christians do not know what this means. Be on the mode of meditation as we read through Gods word. Putting God first shapes how we think, decide, love, work, and rest. When we put God first, we learn to trust Him for guidance, to love Him above all else, and to arrange our days around His will. These bible verses about putting god first help us remember that God cares for our needs, shows us the way, and wants our hearts fully. As we read, let us open our minds and soften our hearts to let God lead. We will find strength in scripture, simple direction for daily choices, and comfort for times of worry. Let us read slowly, think about how these verses apply to our lives, and encourage one another to put God first in small and big ways.
Matthew 6:33
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” – Matthew 6:33
bible verses about putting god first
Seeking God’s Kingdom First
When we study bible verses about putting god first, we start with the idea of seeking God’s kingdom first. In our lives, there are so many things that pull us—work, school, family responsibilities, hobbies, and worries about tomorrow. Yet the Bible teaches that when we intentionally put God’s kingdom and His righteousness first, everything else finds its proper place. We mean that we choose God’s priorities over our own quick fixes. Practically, this looks like praying before decisions, choosing what pleases God when plans compete, and trusting He will meet our needs. We do not place seeking God as one item among many; we choose it as the compass for our choices. This doesn’t promise life without trouble, but it promises a steady direction and provision when we trust God before the race begins. As we read these bible verses about putting god first, let’s remind one another that seeking God’s kingdom first is a daily practice—it is not a one-time event. We can ask: Where do we spend our time? What captures our thoughts most? Then gently redirect those things toward God’s ways. When we do, the Bible says that daily needs will be cared for and our hearts will find rest in Him.
Matthew 6:33
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” – Matthew 6:33
Luke 12:31
“But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.” – Luke 12:31
Isaiah 55:6
“Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near.” – Isaiah 55:6
Jeremiah 29:13
“And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.” – Jeremiah 29:13
Psalm 63:1
“O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;” – Psalm 63:1
bible verses about putting god first
Loving God Above All
As we explore bible verses about putting god first, loving God above everything becomes clear. Loving God above all means we choose God’s will over our wishes, and we place our relationship with Him before relationships, jobs, and hurts. We are not saying we stop loving others; rather, our love for God shapes and strengthens those other loves. When we love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, it becomes the lens through which we handle brokenness, success, and everyday choices. Practically, that may look like reading Scripture first in the morning, praying when plans change, or pausing our busyness to worship. We do this together, encouraging one another to check our motives and keep our first love alive. The Bible calls us back to this priority again and again because our hearts drift. These bible verses about putting god first remind us to come back, to center our lives on God’s presence, and to let that first love guide how we treat others and spend our time.
Matthew 22:37
“Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.” – Matthew 22:37
Deuteronomy 6:5
“And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.” – Deuteronomy 6:5
Mark 12:30
“And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.” – Mark 12:30
Luke 10:27
“And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.” – Luke 10:27
Matthew 10:37
“He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.” – Matthew 10:37
bible verses about putting god first
Trusting God to Guide Our Paths
Trust is central in bible verses about putting god first. Trusting God to guide our paths means we don’t rely only on what feels safe or clever; we ask God to lead and then obey. In everyday life this looks like bringing our plans to God in prayer, listening for His wisdom in Scripture, and being willing to change course when God leads. We learn together that trust grows when we remember God’s past faithfulness. Even when the next step seems unclear, we can move forward knowing that God directs our steps. Trust does not mean passivity—rather, it’s active dependence: we make choices after seeking God, then walk in the direction He shows. When we put God first, we build a life of steady steps guided by God instead of anxious leaps based on fear. These bible verses about putting god first remind us that God promises to instruct and steady us when we commit our ways to Him, and that gives us courage to take the next step.
Proverbs 3:5
“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5
Proverbs 3:6
“In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” – Proverbs 3:6
Psalm 37:5
“Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.” – Psalm 37:5
Isaiah 26:3
“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” – Isaiah 26:3
Psalm 23:1
“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.” – Psalm 23:1
bible verses about putting god first
Denying Self and Following Jesus
When we read bible verses about putting god first, we find that following Jesus often means denying ourselves. This idea sounds hard, but it is about trading short-term gain for long-term life with God. Denying self means we let go of selfish habits, pride, and comfort that pull us away from God. Instead we choose what Jesus asks—serving others, carrying our responsibilities, and trusting God even when the cross feels heavy. We gather courage together when we remember Jesus’ example: He put God’s will above comfort. Choosing to follow Him is a daily decision. We may lose popularity or comfort, but we gain a deep sense of purpose and connection to God. These bible verses about putting god first help us see that true freedom comes when we stop being driven only by “me” and start living for Jesus and His kingdom.
Matthew 16:24
“Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” – Matthew 16:24
Mark 8:34
“And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” – Mark 8:34
Luke 9:23
“And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” – Luke 9:23
Philippians 3:8
“Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,” – Philippians 3:8
Galatians 2:20
“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” – Galatians 2:20
bible verses about putting god first
Making God Our Priority in Decisions
Putting God first shows up in how we decide. When we read bible verses about putting god first, we see that making God our priority in decisions means consulting Him, listening to His Word, and asking for wisdom. It is more than saying a quick prayer; it is the habit of inviting God into our plans. We can practice this by pausing for Scripture and prayer before big purchases, relationships, jobs, or moves. Sometimes it means choosing the harder, kinder path because it honors God. Other times it means trusting God’s timing instead of forcing a solution. Together we can encourage one another to seek God’s counsel and to be humble enough to change plans when God directs us differently. These verses teach that when we commit our work and ways to God, He works through our choices and leads us into peace and good results.
Colossians 3:2
“Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” – Colossians 3:2
James 4:8
“Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.” – James 4:8
Proverbs 16:3
“Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.” – Proverbs 16:3
Proverbs 16:9
“A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.” – Proverbs 16:9
Psalm 119:105
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” – Psalm 119:105
bible verses about putting god first
Worship and Firstfruits: Honoring God with Our Resources
Putting God first includes how we use money, time, and gifts. These bible verses about putting god first remind us to honor God with our resources. Worship is not only singing; it includes where we invest our energy and money. Giving the firstfruits was an Old Testament practice that showed putting God first in harvest and income. Today, that idea helps us set priorities in budgets, generosity, and service. When we give to God first, we show trust that He provides. It also keeps our hearts from becoming ruled by things. We do not give to earn God’s favor; we give because He has first loved us and entrusted us with resources to care for others. As a community, we encourage one another to be generous and faithful so our lives show that God is our priority.
Proverbs 3:9
“Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase:” – Proverbs 3:9
Proverbs 3:10
“So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.” – Proverbs 3:10
Malachi 3:10
“Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing,” – Malachi 3:10
1 Corinthians 10:31
“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31
Romans 12:1
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” – Romans 12:1
bible verses about putting god first
Keeping Hearts and Minds Set on Heaven
When we read bible verses about putting god first, we learn to keep our hearts and minds set on heaven. This means our thoughts aim at eternal things instead of being stuck on temporary worries. In simple terms, it means we remember who we belong to and what really matters. We practice thinking about God’s promises, worshiping, and valuing what lasts. That changes how we respond to stress and temptation. Rather than chasing comfort or recognition, we look for lasting character and relationship with God. As a group, we remind each other that thinking heaven-first reshapes our plans and the way we treat people. It doesn’t remove hard feelings, but it gives us hope and steady focus when life is distracting. These bible verses about putting god first help us re-center our minds each day on God and on what He is building in us.
Philippians 3:20
“For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ;” – Philippians 3:20
Hebrews 12:2
“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” – Hebrews 12:2
Psalm 27:4
“One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple.” – Psalm 27:4
Romans 8:5
“For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.” – Romans 8:5
Psalm 73:25
“Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee.” – Psalm 73:25
bible verses about putting god first
Obedience and Faithfulness
Putting God first shows itself by our obedience and faithfulness. Bible verses about putting god first tell us that faith isn’t only belief—it is action. Obedience means doing what God asks, even when it is hard or confusing. Faithfulness means sticking with God through good times and bad. Together, these qualities build trust and deepen our relationship with God. We do not obey to earn God’s love, but because love for God moves us to say “yes” with our lives. When we are faithful in small things, God can trust us with larger things. As a group, we celebrate acts of faithfulness in one another and encourage anyone who is wavering. These bible verses about putting god first remind us that steady, humble obedience is the practical proof that God is truly first in our hearts.
John 14:15
“If ye love me, keep my commandments.” – John 14:15
Hebrews 11:6
“But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” – Hebrews 11:6
1 John 2:3
“And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments.” – 1 John 2:3
Psalm 119:10
“With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments.” – Psalm 119:10
Matthew 7:21
“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” – Matthew 7:21
bible verses about putting god first
Finding Peace by Seeking God
Peace is a strong promise in bible verses about putting god first. When we put God first, our hearts can rest because we are not trying to control everything. Seeking God brings a calm that is different from simple worry-free moments. It is the kind of peace that holds us steady when life shakes. We grow this peace by praying, trusting God’s promises, and remembering His care. As a group, we can help each other practice quiet trust—talking honestly about fears and then handing them to God. The Bible gives many examples of peace for those who seek God, and these verses remind us that God’s peace is available and real. Putting God first does not remove problems, but it gives us a peace that helps us face them with confidence and hope.
Isaiah 26:3
“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” – Isaiah 26:3
Psalm 37:4
“Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.” – Psalm 37:4
Philippians 4:7
“And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:7
Psalm 34:10
“The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: but they that seek the LORD shall not want any good thing.” – Psalm 34:10
Psalm 46:10
“Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.” – Psalm 46:10
bible verses about putting god first
Serving God Alone — No Other Masters
Finally, bible verses about putting god first teach us to serve God alone. Life often asks us to divide our loyalties—work, fame, money, or even comfort can become masters. God calls us to serve Him only, not to let other things take His place in our hearts. When we place God first, our choices reflect that loyalty: we do not chase what dishonors God, but we serve in ways that please Him. Serving God alone keeps our lives aligned with truth and frees us from the pressure of trying to please everyone else. We support one another in this by reminding each other that true freedom comes from living under God’s rule, not under the rule of things that cannot satisfy. These bible verses about putting god first make it clear that God’s rightful place is first, and serving Him alone brings life, joy, and purpose.
Matthew 6:24
“No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” – Matthew 6:24
Exodus 20:3
“Thou shalt have no other gods before me.” – Exodus 20:3
1 John 2:15
“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” – 1 John 2:15
Revelation 3:20
“Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” – Revelation 3:20
1 Corinthians 10:31
“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31
Final Thoughts
I have shared many bible verses about putting god first and grouped them so we can see different ways that putting God first touches life. We looked at seeking God’s kingdom, loving God above all, trusting Him with our paths, denying self to follow Jesus, choosing God in decisions, honoring Him with our resources, keeping our minds on heaven, living in obedience, finding peace by seeking God, and serving God alone. Each group gives a simple picture of what it looks like to make God our priority.
We can use these verses as daily reminders. Let them shape our prayers, our choices, and the small things we do each day. Putting God first is a practice: it grows when we gently and steadily turn our hearts back to Him. When we fall, we can return to these scriptures and start again.
Let us go forward together, encouraging one another to put God first in prayer, work, family, and rest. As we do, we will find God’s steady guidance, peace, and joy in ways that matter for now and forever.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4