In the world of professional football, all eyes are on the first-round draft picks. These are the players expected to be game-changers, the ones who command attention and accolades. But what about those chosen in the second round? While they may not grab headlines, many second-round picks have gone on to become legendary players in their own right.
This analogy serves as a powerful metaphor for our relationships, particularly in marriage. So often, we focus all our energy on finding “the one” – that perfect soulmate who will complete us and make our lives magical. We scroll through social media, seeing carefully curated highlights of seemingly perfect relationships, and think, “That’s what I want.”
But here’s a revolutionary thought: what if your spouse isn’t meant to be your “number one”? What if they’re actually meant to be your second pick?
Before you close this tab in indignation, hear me out. This isn’t about devaluing your spouse or your relationship. Far from it. It’s about putting things in their proper order and perspective.
You see, if we’re truly seeking a fulfilling, impactful, and purpose-driven life and marriage, there’s only one entity worthy of that coveted first-round draft pick: Jesus Christ.
In Matthew 22:37-39, Jesus gives us a profound blueprint for life when asked about the greatest commandment. He replies, “You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Notice the order here. Loving God comes first. It’s the foundation upon which everything else is built. Only then does Jesus mention loving others.
This is the key to a truly Christ-centered life and marriage: Jesus is number one, and your spouse is number two. It might sound simple, but living it out is anything but easy.
We live in a world that constantly bombards us with messages about what our priorities should be. Find the perfect partner. Advance in your career. Give your kids every opportunity. While none of these things are inherently wrong, they can easily become idols that push God to the sidelines of our lives.
But when we intentionally put Christ at the center, everything else falls into its proper place. Our beliefs shape our actions and decisions, leading us to the life of impact and fulfillment we deeply desire.
So, how do we practically apply this principle, especially in marriage? The answer might surprise you in its simplicity: pray together every single day.
Now, before you dismiss this as overly elementary, consider the profound impact this one habit can have on your relationship. When you commit to praying with your spouse daily:
1. It becomes much harder to make poor decisions, knowing you have a standing appointment to come before God together.
2. While it doesn’t prevent anger, it makes it far more difficult to stay angry when you know you’ll be joining hands in prayer later.
3. It creates a shared spiritual intimacy that strengthens your bond.
4. It keeps God at the forefront of your minds and hearts, influencing your interactions and priorities.
For those feeling intimidated by the prospect, here are some practical tips:
– Keep it short: Start with just 30-60 seconds if that feels manageable. You can always expand as you grow more comfortable.
– Be consistent: Choose a time that works for both of you and stick to it. Whether it’s over morning coffee, during a lunch break video call, or right before bed, make it a non-negotiable part of your day.
– Don’t get discouraged: If you miss a day, don’t let it derail you. Just pick back up the next day.
The beauty of this practice is that it doesn’t require theological expertise or hours of free time. It’s a simple act of coming before God together, acknowledging His place in your lives and marriage.
As you make this a habit, you may find that other aspects of your relationship naturally improve. Communication becomes easier when you’re regularly practicing vulnerability before God together. Your perspective on challenges shifts as you bring them to Him in unity. And your individual relationships with God deepen as you witness and encourage each other’s faith.
It’s important to note that this principle of putting Christ first applies whether you’re married, single, or anywhere in between. So often, we hear people say they’ll be ready to serve God once they find the right partner, or once their kids are grown, or once they retire. But this mentality keeps God perpetually on the back burner.
The truth is, we can’t expect a Christ-centered relationship tomorrow if we refuse to put Christ at the center of our lives today. We can’t build a righteous future on a foundation of present-day compromise.
God doesn’t want to be an afterthought or a box to check off. He wants to be the central focus, the guiding force in every aspect of our lives. When we give Him that place of prominence, everything else – our relationships, our work, our purpose – falls into alignment.
So, whether you’re in a season of singleness, dating, engagement, or marriage, the invitation is the same: Make Jesus your “first-round draft pick.” Let Him be your number one, and watch as He brings clarity, purpose, and fulfillment to every other area of your life.
In practical terms, this might look like:
– Starting your day with prayer and Scripture reading before checking your phone or email.
– Seeking God’s guidance in major decisions rather than relying solely on your own understanding.
– Prioritizing church involvement and serving others, even when your schedule feels packed.
– Viewing your relationships through the lens of how they can glorify God, rather than just what they can do for you.
As you embark on this journey of putting Christ truly at the center, be patient with yourself and your spouse if you’re married. It’s a process that requires intentionality and grace. But the rewards – a deeper connection with God, a more fulfilling relationship with your partner, and a life of genuine purpose and impact – are immeasurable.
So, are you ready to make the shift? To elevate Jesus to His rightful place as your “first-round pick” and to see how it transforms every other aspect of your life? The invitation is open. The choice is yours. What will your response be?