Most preachers live by a guiding principle that they will strive to make decisions and take whatever actions are necessary to do what is best for the church. Removing self and being truly determined to put the needs of a congregation above one’s own personal desires is essential to the betterment of the Lord’s people and the Lord’s purpose on this earth. Most elders live by that same guiding principle. Most deacons long for that, as well.
But, here’s something to consider. Is that only a life principle that someone like an elder or a preacher are committed to follow? Or is that not a determination that God wants all of His people to have, regardless of their place in His church? Seeking “first” God’s church (cf. Matt. 6:33) is not just about “being at church on Sunday.” That’s merely a small part and a natural outgrowth of having Christ as “Lord in your heart” (1 Pet. 3:15, NASB), because doing what’s best for the church (read that as, “doing what’s best for Jesus’ body and Jesus’ bride”) is doing what’s best for Jesus Himself. Read the second sentence in the first paragraph again. Is that you?