Pray First: Prioritizing God in Daily Life

Summary

Prayer is something we all struggle with—whether it’s falling asleep, getting distracted, or simply not knowing what to say. Yet, the invitation is clear: God wants to be first in our lives, not an afterthought. The very first words of Scripture, “In the beginning, God,” set the tone for how we are to approach every day and every decision. When God is first, everything else finds its place. The way to put God first is simple but profound: pray first. Before anything else—before the day begins, before a meeting, before a conversation, before a decision—pray first.

Making prayer the priority relationship in life is not just for the spiritually elite; it’s for everyone, whether you’re exploring faith for the first time or have walked with Jesus for years. God will not settle for second place, and when we give Him first place, we discover He is better than we ever imagined. Jesus Himself modeled this, rising early to pray, and taught us to seek first the kingdom of God, promising that all our worries and needs would be met as we do.

To make this practical, two commitments are essential: pray first to start the day, and pray first throughout the day. Starting the day with prayer sets the tone for everything that follows. Even if it’s just three to five minutes, using a simple model like ACTS—Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication—can guide us into meaningful conversation with God. For those who want to go deeper, adding Surrender at the end is a powerful way to yield every part of ourselves to God.

But prayer isn’t just a morning ritual; it’s meant to be a continual conversation. Throughout the day, in every situation, we are invited to pray first—before a meeting, before a phone call, before a purchase, before a reaction. This ongoing dialogue keeps us aware of God’s presence and care, reminding us that He is near and that He cares for us deeply. The promise is sure: as we come near to God in prayer, He comes near to us. The nearness of God is available to all who will simply decide to pray first.

Key Takeaways

- God Desires First Place, Not Second
God’s very nature demands to be the priority relationship in our lives. He will not settle for being an afterthought or a backup plan. When we put Him first—before our worries, our plans, and our routines—we discover a depth of relationship and blessing that can’t be found any other way. “In the beginning, God” is not just a phrase for Genesis, but a motto for every day. [25:44]

- Prayer is Both a Discipline and a Delight
Starting the day with prayer is a decision that often requires overcoming our own resistance—fatigue, distraction, or busyness. Yet, as we build this habit, it transforms our days and our hearts. Even a few minutes spent in focused prayer can shift our perspective, align our priorities, and invite God’s presence into every moment. [30:26]

- A Model for Prayer Brings Clarity and Depth
Many struggle with what to say in prayer, but using a model like ACTS—Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication—provides a simple yet profound structure. This approach moves us beyond self-centered requests and into a fuller relationship with God, starting with who He is, moving through honest confession, gratitude, and finally, bringing our needs and the needs of others. [36:28]

- Prayer is Meant to be Ongoing, Not Occasional
God invites us to pray continually, not just in the morning or in crisis. This means developing a rhythm of “pray first” throughout the day—before decisions, conversations, and challenges. Such a lifestyle keeps us connected to God’s wisdom, strength, and peace, and reminds us that He cares for every detail of our lives. [47:53]

- The Promise of God’s Nearness is for All
The most amazing truth is that as we draw near to God in prayer, He draws near to us. This is not reserved for the spiritually mature, but is available to anyone who will simply come. The nearness of God is what every heart longs for, and it is found in the simple act of praying first—in the morning, and all throughout the day. [51:04]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[20:00] - Honest Confessions About Prayer
[22:22] - Praying Scripture (and When It Goes Wrong)
[23:59] - Why Praying First Matters
[25:44] - God Must Be First
[27:46] - The Blessing of Making Jesus the Priority
[29:25] - Jesus’ Example: Praying Early
[30:26] - The Power of Starting Your Day in Prayer
[31:45] - Overcoming Challenges to Morning Prayer
[33:36] - Learning How to Pray: The ACTS Model
[36:28] - Walking Through ACTS: Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication
[41:39] - How ACTS Transforms Your Prayer Life
[43:20] - Advanced Prayer: Adding Surrender
[46:18] - Praying First Throughout the Day
[47:53] - Pray Continually: God’s Will for You
[51:04] - The Promise: God Draws Near
[54:02] - Practicing Prayer Together
[55:12] - Posture and Speaking Your Prayers
[58:53] - Experiencing the Nearness of God Through Prayer
[01:00:13] - Leading the Church in ACTS Prayer
[01:03:42] - Supplication: Praying for Needs and Others

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: Pray First

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### Bible Reading

1. Genesis 1:1 (ESV)
> In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.

2. Matthew 6:33 (ESV)
> But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

3. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (ESV)
> Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

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### Observation Questions

1. According to Genesis 1:1, what is the very first thing the Bible says about God’s place in the world and in our lives?
2. In Matthew 6:33, what does Jesus say should come first in our lives, and what does he promise will happen if we do this? [27:46]
3. The sermon mentioned that prayer is both a discipline and a delight. What are some of the common struggles with prayer that were honestly confessed in the message? [20:00]
4. What is the ACTS model of prayer, and what does each letter stand for? [36:28]

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### Interpretation Questions

1. Why do you think God wants to be first in our lives, not just an afterthought? How does this relate to the phrase “In the beginning, God”? [23:59]
2. The sermon said that Jesus modeled starting the day with prayer. Why might it be important to begin our day with God, rather than fitting Him in later? [29:25]
3. The ACTS model moves us from focusing on ourselves to focusing on God and others. How might this change the way we experience prayer? [36:28]
4. What does it mean to “pray continually” as described in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 and in the sermon? How is this different from just praying in the morning or in emergencies? [47:53]

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### Application Questions

1. The sermon challenged us to “pray first” before anything else—before the day begins, before a meeting, before a conversation, before a decision. What is one specific area of your life where you usually forget to pray first? How could you remind yourself to include God at the start? [46:18]
2. Many people struggle with distractions, tiredness, or not knowing what to say when they pray. Which of these is most challenging for you, and what is one practical step you could take this week to overcome it? [20:00]
3. The ACTS model (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) was suggested as a simple way to guide prayer. Which part of ACTS do you find easiest, and which is hardest? How could you stretch yourself to include all four parts in your prayers this week? [36:28]
4. For those who want to go deeper, the sermon suggested adding “Surrender” at the end of prayer. What would it look like for you to surrender a specific area of your life to God in prayer? [43:20]
5. The message said that God will not settle for second place. Are there routines, worries, or plans that often take first place in your life? What is one thing you could do to put God first this week? [25:44]
6. The promise was made that as we draw near to God in prayer, He draws near to us. Have you ever experienced God’s nearness in prayer? If not, what is one way you could open yourself up to that experience this week? [51:04]
7. The sermon encouraged us to pray out loud and to find a posture for prayer that helps us focus. What is one new way you could try praying this week—maybe out loud, kneeling, standing, or with music in the background? [55:12]

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Devotional

Day 1: In the Beginning, God—Making God the Priority

The foundation of a vibrant spiritual life is putting God first in everything. Before the day begins, before decisions are made, before words are spoken, God desires to be at the center. When you choose to “pray first,” you are declaring that God is your priority relationship, not an afterthought. This isn’t about giving God a piece of your life, but about surrendering all of it to Him, trusting that when He is first, everything else falls into its proper place. God will not settle for second place, and when you allow Him to be first, you’ll discover a life of purpose, peace, and joy that you wouldn’t trade for anything else. [25:44]

Genesis 1:1 (ESV)
In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.

Reflection: What is one area of your life where God has not been first? How can you intentionally put Him at the center of that area today by starting with prayer?


Day 2: Seek First—The Promise of Prioritizing God

Jesus teaches that when you seek God’s kingdom and righteousness first, all the things that worry you will be taken care of. Worry often creeps in about work, family, or the future, but Jesus’ promise is clear: if you put Him first, He will handle the rest. This is not just a comforting thought, but a practical principle for daily living. By deciding to pray first, you are actively seeking God’s guidance and provision, trusting that He knows your needs and will provide for them as you keep Him at the forefront of your life. [27:46]

Matthew 6:33 (ESV)
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Reflection: What is one worry or concern you can bring to God in prayer today, trusting Him to provide as you seek Him first?


Day 3: The ACTS Model—A Practical Guide to Prayer

Many people struggle with knowing how to pray or what to say, but the ACTS model—Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication—offers a simple, powerful structure. Begin by praising God for who He is, then honestly confess your sins and receive His forgiveness. Move into gratitude, thanking Him for specific blessings, and finally, bring your needs and the needs of others before Him. This model keeps your focus on God, helps you avoid distraction, and ensures your prayers are balanced and meaningful. Even just three to five minutes spent praying through ACTS can transform your day and deepen your relationship with God. [41:39]

Psalm 5:3 (ESV)
O Lord, in the morning you hear my voice; in the morning I prepare a sacrifice for you and watch.

Reflection: Which part of the ACTS model do you find most challenging, and how can you intentionally practice that aspect in your prayers tomorrow morning?


Day 4: Pray First Throughout the Day—A Continual Conversation

Prayer isn’t just for the morning; it’s meant to be an ongoing conversation with God throughout your day. Whether you’re stepping into a meeting, making a decision, or facing a challenge, pausing to pray first invites God into every moment. Scripture encourages us to “pray continually,” reminding us that God cares about every detail and wants to be involved in all circumstances. When you make it a habit to pray first before each new situation, you’ll find yourself more aware of God’s presence and more at peace, no matter what comes your way. [47:53]

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (ESV)
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Reflection: What is one routine activity today (like driving, eating, or starting work) where you can pause and pray first, inviting God into that moment?


Day 5: Surrender—Yielding Every Part of Your Life to God

Beyond adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and supplication, true prayer leads to surrender. This means yielding every part of yourself—your mind, eyes, ears, lips, heart, hands, and feet—to God’s will. Surrender is a daily, intentional act where you invite God to shape your thoughts, words, actions, and desires. As you physically and spiritually surrender each part of your life, you open yourself to God’s transforming power and align your life with His purposes. This act of surrender is not weakness, but the pathway to strength, freedom, and the fullness of life God intends for you. [43:20]

Romans 12:1 (ESV)
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.

Reflection: As you pray today, what is one specific area or habit you need to surrender to God, and how can you physically symbolize that surrender in your prayer time?

Quotes

If you ever decide, Jesus, you’re gonna be the Lord of my life. You’re gonna be my Lord and my Savior. If you ever decide that, I need to tell you something. He will not settle for second place. He will not. He must be first. In the beginning, God, he must be first. Jesus must be the priority relationship of your life. If you’re saying, well, I’ll give God some of my life. No, it doesn’t work that way. It doesn’t work that way at all. God wants to be the center of your life and he wants all of your life. The very nature of who God is demands that he is the priority relationship of your life. [00:27:15] (37 seconds)  #JesusFirstAlways Edit Clip

If you start your day in gratitude, it makes it so much harder to grumble throughout the day. It does. It does. When you start your day with Thanksgiving, it’s a lot harder to be a pain known to somebody else’s butt. Can I tell you that? Because you’re being thankful thankful thankful thankful thankful and then and then I get to the final letter that would be an s everybody remember it a c t s and the s just stands for this big old word called supplication and this is where um this is where I pray for the needs of others and for myself and this is where most of us start our prayer uh-uh no no I’m saying this is where we should end our prayer this is where we say god help me god help them god help me god help them this is where I bring my concerns to god my cares to god my worries to god this is where I pray for health this is where I pray for my friends this is where I pray for my neighbors to know jesus this is where I pray for my for my boss who seems to be real grumpy these days this is where I pray for for uh for my spouse who who seems to not really care about the lord right now this is this is where I pray for our our brothers and sisters in california suffering from wildfires this is where I pray for our nation. This is where I pray for our president. This is where I pray for our church. This is where you should pray for your pastor. This is where I pray for you. In supplication. In supplication. [00:40:09] (81 seconds)  #SupplicationMatters Edit Clip

If you would follow Acts, A-C-T-S, I promise you, you would never again run out of words. You never again get distracted. You never again feel the need to pray for the Cowboys. I’m telling you, you wouldn’t fall back asleep if you just use Acts. Because it would give you a guide. It’d give you a model. It’d give you a way to start your day. I have decided to pray first to start my day. And you can do this. You can do this. [00:41:39] (37 seconds)  #NeverRunOutOfWords Edit Clip

Honestly, honestly, you can pray through A-C-T-S, through Acts, in all of three to five minutes. And I just have a hunch that every single one of us in here today have three to five minutes to give to the God of the universe when we start our day. Every single one of us can do that. Every single one of us. [00:42:15] (18 seconds)  #PrayInFiveMinutes Edit Clip

Paul wrote this in the Bible. He said, rejoice always. Pray continually. Give thanks in all circumstances for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. What is God’s will for you that you would pray all throughout the day? Pray first throughout the day. God wants you to keep in touch. God wants you to keep in touch. [00:48:01] (28 seconds)  #ComeNearToGod Edit Clip

How do you experience his care when you pray first? When you pray first? In fact, here’s what you’re doing. When you decide in the beginning, God, I’m gonna pray first. I’m gonna pray first to start my day. I’m gonna pray first all throughout the day. You’re living out this verse. Let me show it to you. God makes us a promise. And this is what it says. Come near to God and he will come near to you. That’s the promise. So how does one come near to God? God, pray first. You come near to God the same way you would come near to me. You wanna come near to me? You gotta come see me. You gotta text me. You gotta call me. You gotta spend some time with me. We gotta share a meal together. You gotta talk to me. I gotta talk to you a little bit. That’s how you come near to me. That’s how you come near to God. You pray first. And watch, when you pray first and come near to God, God comes near to you. It’s a promise. It’s a guarantee. [00:50:39] (77 seconds)  #SpeakYourPrayersAloud Edit Clip