First Things First – Proverbs 24:27

First Things First is Arizona’s early childhood agency, committed to the healthy development and learning of young children from birth to age 5, and they write:  90% of a child’s brain develops before they start kindergarten. And research shows that the quality of a child’s experiences in their first five years helps shape how their brain develops.  Kids with positive, stable relationships with parents and caregivers, as well as quality child care and preschool experiences, go on to do better in school and in life. They’re more likely to read at grade level and graduate from high school. They are more prepared for college and career.

Prepare your work outside; get everything ready for yourself in the field, and after that build your house. (Proverbs 24:27, ESV)

There is a proper order to things.  And many times the achievement of our greatest dream or goal must be deferred until the things that need to be accomplished to support that dream are finished.

Abraham did not build his house, that is, have the promised son, until he had moved at God’s command to Canaan and learned to trust in Yahweh.  Joseph did not reveal himself to his brothers until he had evidence of their genuine repentance over what they did to him.  Moses did not lead Israel out of Egypt until God had trained him in shepherding in the wilderness for 40 years.  Jesus did not take up his ministry until John the Baptist had first come and preached the kingdom and baptized Jesus.

Perhaps you developed your career or finished school before you got married.  Maybe you solidified your job before you had children.  Maybe you are right now pursuing your goals and dreams by doing those things that will support them.  First things first.