In a world obsessed with performance, position, and popularity, it’s easy—even as Christians—to get our priorities out of order. We may polish the outside while neglecting the inside. We may strive for recognition while ignoring the condition of our hearts.

But God’s Word invites us to a better way—a way where who we are matters more than what we do, and why we serve matters more than how we look when we serve.

This series, “First Things First,” is built on five simple yet powerful truths—all with a rhyme to help us remember, but far more than that, each rooted deeply in Scripture. These are not just catchy phrases—they are God’s priorities for anyone who desires to live a life that pleases Him.

1. Heart Before Art

• “People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” – 1 Samuel 16:7

In today’s culture, we’re constantly pressured to perform, impress, and promote ourselves, often at the expense of our true selves. We post the highlight reel, not the behind-the-scenes, carefully curating our online personas to showcase only the glimmering moments while leaving out the struggle and vulnerability that define the human experience. We focus on image, not integrity, chasing after likes and validation rather than fostering genuine connections and being authentic with one another. We pursue success, even if it costs our soul, sacrificing our mental and emotional well-being in the relentless race for achievement and recognition, leaving us disconnected from our passions and purpose.

But God calls us to a different way: a life that starts from the inside out. This journey often requires deep self-reflection and a commitment to personal growth, as it is our internal landscape that truly defines our external world. God values authentic character more than external appearance or achievement, emphasizing that genuine transformation flows from a heart aligned with His purpose.

Biblical Foundations

1. God Sees Beyond the Surface

• 1 Samuel 16:7 – When Samuel looked for Israel’s next king, God reminded him that appearance is not the measure—the heart is.

• In a world often preoccupied with appearances, where judgments are made based on what is visible, it is vital to remember that God perceives our true selves, extending far beneath the surface. His understanding goes deep, transcending the facades we present to others and the masks we wear to navigate society. While humans may focus on outward characteristics such as status, physical beauty, or material wealth, God looks at the heart, recognizing our intentions, struggles, and dreams. This divine insight reminds us that our worth is not determined by external measures but by the love and grace God bestows upon us. The knowledge that God sees our true essence can be both comforting and challenging, prompting us to seek authenticity in our lives and strive to reflect the goodness He understands within us.

2. A Right Heart Shapes a Right Life

• Proverbs 4:23 – “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
• The condition of your heart affects how you think deeply, how you choose to speak to others with kindness or harshness, how you act in various situations, and ultimately, how you treat others, which can significantly impact your relationships and interactions in daily life.

3. Outward Success Without Inward Health Is Hollow

• Matthew 23:27-28 – Jesus warned against being “clean on the outside, but full of hypocrisy within.”
• A life that looks good but is disconnected from God is ultimately empty, lacking true purpose and fulfillment, leaving a void that material success cannot fill, ultimately leading to a sense of longing for something deeper and more meaningful.

Principles:

A. What You Do Matters—but Who You Are Matters More

• You can be productive, popular, or praised—but if your heart is bitter, proud, or selfish, you’re building on sand. It’s essential to recognize that true fulfillment and lasting success stem not just from outward accomplishments or recognition, but from the integrity and warmth of our character.

“Reputation is who people think you are; character is who you are when no one’s looking.” – John Wooden

B. Image Management is Exhausting

• Pretending to have it all together might win temporary applause from those around you, but it ultimately robs you of true peace and serenity within yourself, leaving you feeling empty and disconnected from your authentic self.
• God invites you to live from a place of honesty and humility—not pressure. This call to authenticity encourages you to reveal your true self and trust in His guidance, fostering deeper connections with others and nurturing a spirit of genuine compassion.

C. God Transforms From the Inside Out

• Ezekiel 36:26 – “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you.”
• Real change doesn’t start with fixing the outside; it starts with surrendering the inside, acknowledging our deeper fears and insecurities, and allowing ourselves to embrace vulnerability as we embark on a transformative journey.

“The heart of the matter is the matter of the heart.” — Warren Wiersbe

Practical Application

• For Students: Are you working hard to impress others or to grow as a person of integrity? Let your motivation be love for learning and honoring God—not just grades or applause.
• For Professionals: Do you value performance over personal character? Excellence is good—but not if it comes at the cost of truth, fairness, or family.
• For Everyone: Take 10 minutes this week to ask God:“Lord, what’s going on in my heart that I might be ignoring?”

At the end of the day, God isn’t impressed by how polished our lives appear, but by how surrendered our hearts are. We can perform well, dress right, speak smoothly, and even achieve success in the world’s eyes—but if our hearts are far from God, we’ve missed what matters most. So let’s stop chasing perfection on the outside while ignoring what’s going on inside. Let’s put first things first. Because when the heart is right, everything else flows from there—and that’s the kind of life that truly pleases God

Let’s choose honesty over image, character over charisma, and surrender over performance.

2. Character Before Charisma

• “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.” – Proverbs 11:3 (NIV)

We live in an age where charisma is king. The loudest voice gets attention, and the most magnetic personality often rises quickly, capturing the hearts and minds of the masses. Social media rewards style over substance, creating an environment that often prioritizes appearances and sensationalism over genuine value and depth. However, charisma without character is inherently unstable. A gifted person devoid of integrity is like a house built on sand—impressive for a moment, alluring in its facade, but ultimately unable to withstand the test of time. In this digital age, where influence can be fleeting, it’s crucial to cultivate not only charm but also the resilience of moral values and ethical behavior, ensuring that the connections we form are built on a solid foundation rather than on mere transient appeal. Without this depth of character, the fleeting nature of charisma may lead to inevitable collapse, leaving a trail of disillusioned followers in its wake.

Charisma may open doors, but only character can keep them open. In a world that celebrates personality, charm, and influence, God reminds us that who we are matters far more than how we come across. While charisma can create a fleeting impression and allow us to make connections with others, it is our true character—rooted in integrity, kindness, and authenticity—that builds lasting relationships. As we navigate through life, it is essential to remember that people are more drawn to those who demonstrate genuine values and principles, rather than simply relying on charm to win them over. In moments of challenge and adversity, it is our character that shapes how we respond and interact with others, reinforcing the idea that character is the foundation for enduring success and influence in both personal and professional spheres.

Biblical Foundations

1. God Honors Integrity Over Image

• Proverbs 10:9 – “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.”
• Psalm 15:1-2 – “Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? …The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous…”

2. Charisma Without Character Leads to Collapse

• Judges 16 – Samson had strength and supernatural calling—but lacked the character to carry it. His downfall was not due to lack of ability but lack of self-control.
• Matthew 7:21-23 – Jesus warns that some will do impressive things in His name, but He will say, “I never knew you.”

3. Lasting Influence Requires a Trustworthy Life

• Titus 2:7-8 – “In everything set them an example by doing what is good… so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.”
• True leadership is not built on likability, but on trust, which is cultivated through honesty, consistent actions, and the ability to make tough decisions when necessary to support the team’s long-term success.

Principles:

A. Charisma Attracts, but Character Anchors

• Charisma might get you noticed—but character ultimately determines whether you’re truly worth following in the long run, as it reflects your integrity, values, and the consistency of your actions over time.
• People may admire your charm and charisma, but they will only truly trust your unwavering consistency and reliability over time.

B. Private Character is More Important Than Public Image

• Who you are when no one’s watching matters more than who you appear to be when everyone is, because it is in those quiet moments of solitude that your true character is forged, revealing the depths of your integrity, values, and the essence of your being, unfiltered by the gaze of society.
• Luke 12:2-3 – What’s hidden will eventually be revealed, for there is nothing concealed that will not be made known, and every secret shall come to light, as we are reminded of the inevitability of truth’s emergence.

“Be more concerned with your character than with your reputation, because your character is what you really are.” – D.L. Moody

C. Reputation is Built Over Time; Charisma Can’t Replace It

• Integrity, humility, honesty, and faithfulness are slow-growing—but deeply rooted, often taking years to cultivate, yet their enduring presence provides a solid foundation upon which strong relationships and communities can thrive.

“Your talent may take you where your character can’t keep you.” — Christine Caine

Practical Application

• For Students: Focus on becoming trustworthy before becoming popular. Choose to be the same person in class, online, and at home.
• For Professionals: Don’t let the pressure to impress compromise your values. Be the coworker or boss who can be counted on—even when it’s hard.
• For Everyone: This week, choose one small act of integrity—whether it’s admitting a mistake, keeping a promise, or speaking the truth in love.

In a world that often rewards charm over consistency, God calls us to something better. Charisma may get attention—but only character earns respect. When we choose integrity over impression, and truth over image, we reflect the heart of Christ to a watching world.

3. Being Before Doing

• “Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Abide in Me… apart from Me you can do nothing.” – John 15:4-5

We live in a world that constantly asks, “What have you done lately?”, “How much can you get done today?”, and “What’s your next achievement?”. The pressure to perform can easily become our identity, weighing us down with expectations and a relentless drive for productivity that often feels exhausting. We find ourselves caught in a cycle of comparison and self-evaluation, measuring our worth by our accomplishments rather than our inherent value as individuals. But the gospel flips this script: before God calls us to do anything for Him, He calls us to be with Him, inviting us into a relationship that transcends mere actions. This relationship offers solace and grounding, providing us with the opportunity to find our true selves in His presence, where our worth is defined not by what we achieve but by the love and grace He freely extends to us. In this covenant, we rediscover that our significance is rooted in our being, not our doing, reminding us that time spent with our Creator is the most fulfilling and transformative work of all.

We were created to be before we were ever called to do. Our identity in Christ comes before our activity for Christ, reminding us that our worth is not defined by the tasks we accomplish or the accolades we receive. In a culture obsessed with productivity and busyness, God invites us to first rest in who we are—His beloved. This divine rest allows us to reflect on our inherent value and cultivate a deeper relationship with Him, which, in turn, empowers us to serve and engage in meaningful actions.

Biblical Foundations

1. Our Identity Comes from Relationship, Not Results

• John 15:4-5 – Fruit comes from abiding, not striving.
• Matthew 3:17 – Before Jesus did any ministry, the Father declared, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”

2. Doing Without Being Leads to Burnout or Pride

• Luke 10:38-42 – Martha was busy doing; Mary chose being with Jesus. Jesus said Mary chose what is better.
• Psalm 46:10 – “Be still and know that I am God.” Stillness reveals who He is—and who we are.

3. God Cares More About Who You’re Becoming Than What You’re Producing

• Galatians 5:22-23 – The fruit of the Spirit describes who we are becoming, not what we’re achieving.
• Micah 6:8 – God’s desire is not busyness, but to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with Him.

Principles:

A. You Are Not What You Do

• Your worth isn’t in your job title, your GPA, your accomplishments, or your busyness; rather, it is determined by the impact you have on others, the kindness you show, and the resilience you demonstrate in the face of challenges.
• You are a child of God—fully loved before you lift a finger, embraced with grace and kindness, cherished unconditionally in every moment of your existence.

B. Who You Are Fuels What You Do

• The healthiest doing flows from a secure being, where the mind is at peace, the spirit is uplifted, and the body is nourished with intention.
• When your soul is deeply rooted in Christ, your work transitions into a profound act of worship—not merely a search for identity, but rather a heartfelt expression of your faith and dedication to His purpose in your life.

C. God Wants Your Presence Before Your Performance

• He’s more interested in your availability than your activity and how consistently you can be present than the number of tasks you manage to complete each day.
• Mark 3:14 – Jesus appointed the disciples first to “be with Him” before sending them out to do anything.

“Before you do great things for God, let God do great things in you.”

Practical Application

• For Students: Don’t let grades or achievements become your identity. Build rhythms of rest, stillness, and prayer—God is not in a hurry.
• For Professionals: Resist the urge to measure your value by productivity. Prioritize who you’re becoming—through character, patience, humility, and peace.
• For Everyone: Begin each day not with a to-do list, but with a moment of being: silence, Scripture, and surrender.

When our doing is disconnected from our being, we live burned out, worn down, and insecure. But when we start with being—rooted in Christ, grounded in truth, and secure in His love—everything we do becomes an overflow of who we are.

So let’s stop trying to prove our worth through activity and instead live from the identity we already have: beloved sons and daughters of God. Before we do anything, let’s first be with Him.

4. Mission Before Position

“The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve…” – Matthew 20:28

Your calling matters more than your title, as it reflects your true essence and the impact you have on the world around you. God is more interested in how you serve than where you sit, emphasizing that the spirit of your actions holds greater significance than the position you occupy in any hierarchy. Living with purpose will always matter more than climbing the ladder, as the fulfillment derived from a meaningful life far outweighs the transient rewards of status and recognition.

Biblical Foundations

1. Greatness in God’s Kingdom Is About Purpose, Not Power

• Matthew 20:25–28 – “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve…”
  • Jesus contrasts worldly leadership with kingdom leadership, emphasizing that the values and behaviors of leaders in this world often revolve around power, control, and influence, whereas true leadership in the kingdom is characterized by humility, service to others, and a focus on the well-being of the least among us.
• Philippians 2:5–8 – Jesus humbled Himself, taking the position of a servant even though He had the highest authority. He demonstrated profound humility and obedience, willingly embracing the hardships and challenges of humanity, ultimately sacrificing Himself for the sake of others.

“We are not called to titles but to towels.” — T.D. Jakes

2. God Often Chooses the Humble for High Purpose

• David – A shepherd boy, often overlooked by others in his humble beginnings, was anointed to be king by the prophet Samuel, chosen specifically for his compassionate heart for God and his unwavering faith, which set him apart from those around him (1 Samuel 16).
• Esther –  “For such a time as this…” (Esther 4:14)
  • Positioned as queen, but her true purpose was to save her people from the impending darkness that threatened their very existence and to ensure that future generations would live in peace and harmony.

3. True Fulfillment Comes From Living on Mission

• 2 Timothy 4:7 – Paul didn’t boast about his status, but about finishing his race and keeping his faith. He reflected on the challenges he faced, the perseverance it took to stay true to his beliefs, and the ultimate sense of fulfillment in reaching his spiritual goals.
• John 17:4 – Jesus said, “I have brought you glory… by finishing the work you gave me to do.”

Principles:

A. Your Identity is in Your Mission, Not Your Job Title

• You’re not defined by what’s on your business card, social profile, or résumé; these are merely snapshots of your professional journey, not the entirety of who you are or your potential.
• You’re defined by your obedience to God’s call—whether that’s raising a child, showing up faithfully at work, or loving your neighbor.

B. Your Position May Change—Your Purpose Shouldn’t

• Jobs change. Opportunities come and go like the shifting sands, but living with purpose—serving, loving, glorifying God—remains the same in every season of life, providing us with a steadfast foundation to navigate through the trials and triumphs we face along our journey.
• A clear sense of purpose serves as your guiding light, helping you navigate through the uncertainties and complexities that come with change. It will remind you that while positions may alter, your commitment to making a meaningful impact and fulfilling your mission in your professional journey is what ultimately defines your career path.

C. Promotion is God’s Business—Faithfulness is Yours

• Psalm 75:6–7 – “No one from the east or the west… can exalt a man. It is God who judges: He brings one down, He exalts another.”
• In the journey of life, it is crucial to understand that the act of promotion is ultimately under the divine authority of God, who sees our entire path and purpose. He orchestrates opportunities and advancements as part of His perfect plan, designed for us to thrive and serve our higher calling.
• This synergy between divine promotion and personal faithfulness enriches our lives and allows us to contribute meaningfully to the world around us.

Practical Application

• For Students & Young Adults: Don’t wait to “arrive” before you make a difference. You can live out your mission now—in school, with friends, in daily choices.
• For Professionals: See your workplace as your mission field, not just a platform for advancement. Influence isn’t about title—it’s about how you love, serve, and lead with integrity.
• For Everyone: Live with this question daily: “God, how can I live for Your purpose today—right where I am?”

The world tells you to pursue the highest position. God invites you to pursue the highest purpose. Your true greatness isn’t in where you end up—but in who you’re becoming and who you’re serving along the way. So don’t wait for a better role, a bigger platform, or a louder microphone. Live on mission now. Because in God’s eyes, mission always comes before position.

“Don’t climb the ladder of success only to find it was leaning against the wrong wall.” – Thomas Merton

5. Faith Before Fame

• “Without faith it is impossible to please God…” – Hebrews 11:6

In a world chasing attention, God calls us to pursue faithfulness, reminding us that genuine devotion and commitment to our beliefs are far more important than transient accolades. Who we follow matters more than who follows us; the people we choose as our guides can shape our journey in profound ways. Living by faith means seeking God’s approval over fame, likes, or applause, understanding that true fulfillment comes from knowing we are aligned with His will and purpose.

Who we follow matters more than who follows us; the people we choose as our guides can shape our journey in profound ways.

Biblical Foundations

1. God Honors Faithfulness Over Popularity

• Hebrews 11 – The “Hall of Faith” lists people who lived by faith, not for fame—many of whom were misunderstood, rejected, and unseen by the world, yet their unwavering belief in God’s promises drove them to accomplish incredible feats and inspire generations, proving that true faith often goes unnoticed by society while serving a greater purpose in the divine narrative.
• Matthew 25:21 – “Well done, good and faithful servant.” — the ultimate recognition from God isn’t about being known, but being faithful. This acknowledgment serves as a reminder that our actions and dedication to our responsibilities, no matter how small, are valued and celebrated in the eyes of the divine. It emphasizes not just completion, but the quality of our commitment and the integrity we bring to our endeavors, shaping our character and leading us toward a purpose-driven life.

2. Jesus Chose Obscurity Over Earthly Recognition

• Isaiah 53:2-3 – He had “no beauty or majesty to attract us to Him…” He was “despised and rejected.” This passage reflects the profound humility and lowly status of His appearance, emphasizing that He did not fit the worldly standards of attractiveness or power that typically draw people in. Rather than being embraced and celebrated, He faced scorn and rejection from many, highlighting the contrast between divine purpose and human perception.
• John 6:15 – When the crowds wanted to make Him king by force, He withdrew to be alone, seeking solitude and reflection away from the overwhelming desires and expectations of the people around Him.
• Jesus wasn’t driven by fame—He was led by faith and obedience, constantly seeking to fulfill His divine purpose and serving others with love, humility, and unwavering dedication.

3. Living for Fame is Empty

• Proverbs 27:21 – “A person is tested by being praised.”
• Ecclesiastes 1:14 – Solomon, who had all the fame, said it was like “chasing the wind.” He observed that everything under the sun is meaningless and concludes that even the greatest achievements and pursuits ultimately lead nowhere, encapsulating a deeply reflective stance on the human experience.
• Fame can be fleeting, often characterized by its temporary nature and the way it can become addictive, leading individuals to chase after public approval and recognition at any cost. This pursuit can prove to be destructive, taking a toll on mental health and personal relationships. In contrast, faith leads to eternal reward, offering a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment that transcends the superficiality of fame.

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Principles:

A. Fame Fades—Faith Endures

• What’s trending today is forgotten tomorrow; however, faith leaves a lasting legacy that transcends time and continues to inspire generations.
• People may forget your name, but your faith echoes in eternity, resonating through the hearts and minds of those who were touched by your spirit and unwavering belief.

B. Pleasing God > Impressing People

• You can’t serve two masters: the fear of God and the fear of man don’t mix, creating a constant internal struggle that can lead to confusion and conflict in one’s values and decisions.
• Colossians 3:23-24 – “Work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”

C. Your Private Faith is More Important Than Public Praise

• A strong faith is built in secret, not on stage, where it quietly grows and matures away from the eyes of others, allowing for genuine development and deeper understanding.
• Who are you when no one is watching? That’s what God sees—and values. In those private moments where no one else can observe, your true character is revealed. It’s in these silent reflections and solitary thoughts that the essence of your being emerges, showcasing your integrity, humility, and genuine spirit.

Practical Application

• For Students: Don’t let social media define your worth. You’re not your follower count. Live for an audience of One.
• For Professionals: Pursue excellence, not for applause, but to honor God with your work. Lead with integrity, even if it costs recognition.
• For Everyone: Spend more time in God’s Word than on your feed. Be faithful in the small things—even when they’re unseen.

Fame may make you visible—but only faith makes you valuable in God’s eyes. When the lights go out and the crowd disappears, it’s not your popularity that will matter—it’s your perseverance. So don’t chase followers—follow Jesus. Don’t crave attention—crave God’s presence. Because at the end of the day, faith always comes before fame.

Closing:

We’ve walked through five truths—each a reminder that in God’s kingdom, the inside matters more than the outside, and the unseen roots support the visible fruit. God is not impressed by talent without truth, visibility without virtue, or activity without intimacy. He’s after a people whose hearts are fully His, who live from the inside out, and who value eternal applause more than human approval.

So, let’s remember:

• Let your heart lead your art.
• Let character anchor your charisma.
• Let your being shape your doing.
• Let mission guide your position.
• And let faithfulness matter more than fame.

When we live by these truths, we reflect the heart of Jesus Himself—who humbled Himself, served others, and stayed faithful to the Father even in obscurity. And in doing so, He changed the world.

May we do the same—by putting first things first.