Seek Him First: How to Hear from God, Walk in His Will, and Change Your World by Jennifer Hayes Yates is a concise, encouraging, and practical guide for Christians longing to deepen their walk with God. In a world full of distractions and competing priorities, this book reminds believers of the transformative power of prioritizing God above all else.
Yates addresses a common challenge: how do we discern God’s voice and align our daily decisions — from relationships and career choices to ministry involvement — with His will? With clarity and compassion, she offers tools to cultivate spiritual sensitivity, strengthen prayer life, and integrate God-centered practices into everyday life.
Strengths
- Biblical Grounding: Yates roots her guidance in Scripture, helping readers understand not just what to do but why. Biblical principles are woven throughout, making it a spiritually nourishing read.
- Practical Application: The book is filled with actionable advice, from quiet time strategies to steps for discerning God’s voice in real-life situations. It’s a hands-on guide, not just theory.
- Relevant to Modern Life: By addressing everyday struggles — work pressures, family responsibilities, and personal decisions — Yates makes spiritual disciplines feel accessible and applicable for today’s believers.
- Encourages Intentional Faith: The book inspires readers to live intentionally, fostering spiritual growth, obedience, and mission-minded living. It emphasizes that prioritizing God leads to clarity, peace, and purpose.
- Concise and Accessible: At just over 130 pages, it is approachable for new believers, busy adults, or anyone looking for a quick, impactful spiritual boost.
Limitations
- Introductory Focus: The book is designed for accessibility rather than theological depth. Readers seeking an advanced study on spiritual discernment may find it brief.
- Personal Devotion Emphasis: While powerful for individual growth, those hoping for extensive community or church-focused applications may need supplemental resources.
Impact and Relevance
In a world full of noise, competing priorities, and endless advice, Seek Him First reminds believers to return to the foundational principle of the Christian life: putting God first. It invites readers to pause, listen, and trust God’s guidance, offering both spiritual clarity and practical steps for living a faith-filled life.
Conclusion
Seek Him First is an inspiring, accessible guide for Christians at any stage of their spiritual journey. Jennifer Hayes Yates delivers both encouragement and practical tools, reminding readers that when we seek God first, everything else falls into its proper place. This book challenges, equips, and uplifts — making it a valuable addition to any believer’s library.
Rating: ★★★★☆ Highly recommended for Christians seeking clarity, spiritual growth, and a deeper walk with God.