Christ Over Culture: Choosing Jesus in a World of Distractions

"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." —     Matthew 6:33

We live in a society that constantly competes for our attention. Social media, entertainment, school, athletics, career ambitions, and even well-meaning relationships can subtly shift our focus away from Christ. Culture tells us to chase success, money, comfort, and self-expression. But Jesus calls us to something deeper, to seek Him first.

Putting Christ over culture doesn’t mean rejecting the world entirely. It means filtering everything, our choices, values, and priorities, through the lens of His kingdom. It’s about asking, “Does this draw me closer to Jesus or distract me from Him?” Satan will do all he can to distract you from where you ought to be and what you ought to be doing. Friends may want to go out, but you have plans to go to church. There may be a new movie, or TV show, but you had plans to read your Bible, or go to a Bible study at a friend’s house. The battle between sports and Jesus. Who are you going to let win?

When we seek Christ first, we begin to see the world differently. Our identity is no longer shaped by trends or opinions, but by the truth of God’s Word. Our peace doesn’t depend on circumstances, but on the presence of the Prince of Peace.

How to Seek First the Kingdom of God
Here are five practical ways to live this out daily:

1. Start Your Day with God
Before checking your phone or diving into your to-do list, spend time in prayer and Scripture. Invite God into your day and ask Him to guide your thoughts and actions.

2. Let Scripture Shape Your Thinking
Culture often promotes ideas that conflict with God’s truth. Regularly reading and meditating on the Bible helps renew your mind and align your heart with His will.

3. Make Decisions Through Prayer
Whether it’s a major life choice or a small daily decision, seek God’s wisdom first. Ask, “Does this honor Christ and reflect His kingdom?” Some think that God is not concerned with the small stuff we deal with day in and day out, but that is quite far from the truth. He cares about every big and small piece of your life, and He desires to see you make decisions that will honor Him.

4. Serve Others Intentionally
The kingdom of God is marked by love, humility, and service. Look for ways to bless others, even in small, unseen ways, as an act of worship.

5. Stay Connected to Christian Community
Surround yourself with people who encourage you to grow in faith. Attend church, join a small group, or find a mentor who helps you stay focused on Christ.

Daily Habits to Help You Seek God's Kingdom

• Morning Devotion: Read a chapter of Scripture and pray before starting your day.
• Gratitude Journal: Write down three things you're thankful for and how you saw God at work.
• Media Filter: Choose one way to reduce cultural noise (e.g., limit social media, listen to worship music).
• Encourage Someone: Send a message or pray for someone who needs support.
• Evening Reflection: Ask yourself, “Did I seek Christ first today? Where did I struggle? Where did I grow?”

Reflection Questions

• What distractions tend to pull your attention away from Christ?
• In what area of your life do you need to seek God’s kingdom more intentionally?
• How can you use your time, talents, and relationships to reflect the values of God’s kingdom?
• What daily habit could you start this week to help you prioritize Jesus?

Prayer
Lord Jesus, help me to seek You above all else. Teach me to recognize the distractions that pull me away from You. Give me the courage to choose You over comfort, truth over trends, and faith over fear. May Your kingdom be the priority in my life. Amen.
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Challenge for the Week
Pick one area of your life, media, relationships, work, or habits, and commit to putting Christ first in it this week. Journal your experience and ask God to show you how He’s working through your obedience.