We commend you for your desire to keep God as the highest priority in your life and to live by His commandments. This is the essence of the greatest commandment, as Jesus said, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment" (Matthew 22:37-38 WEB).
Let's address each area you've mentioned, praying and seeking God's will together.
Firstly, it's crucial to recognize that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23 WEB). Repentance is the key to turning away from our sins and turning towards God. As you strive to keep God first, be mindful of the idols that can creep into your heart, such as material possessions, personal ambitions, or even relationships that take precedence over God. As Jesus said, "No one can serve two masters" (Matthew 6:24 WEB).
Taking the Lord's name in vain is not just about using His name casually or disrespectfully, but also about living in a way that misrepresents Him. Remember, "Let your light shine before men; that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven" (Matthew 5:16 WEB).
The Sabbath is a day of rest and reflection. Even if you are not under the law but under grace, the principle of rest is essential for your spiritual and physical well-being. Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who labor and are heavily burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28 WEB).
Honoring your parents is a commandment with a promise. It's the first commandment with a promise, "that it may be well with you, and you may live long on the earth" (Ephesians 6:2-3 WEB). Even in difficult family situations, strive to show respect and love.
Jesus taught that hating your brother is akin to murder in your heart (Matthew 5:21-22 WEB). If you have any unresolved conflicts, seek reconciliation as far as it depends on you (Romans 12:18 WEB).
Regarding lust, Jesus said, "But I tell you that whoever looks at a woman to lust after her has committed adultery with her already in his heart" (Matthew 5:28 WEB). Guard your heart and mind, and flee from sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 6:18 WEB).
Stealing, lying, and covetousness are all prohibited by God's commandments. Instead, strive for contentment and integrity, knowing that "godliness with contentment is great gain" (1 Timothy 6:6 WEB).
To cultivate a heart of gratitude, continually give thanks in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18 WEB). Recognize when you are walking in the flesh by being aware of your thoughts, words, and actions. The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23 WEB). Any behavior contrary to these is likely rooted in the flesh.
Let us pray for you:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before you in Jesus' name, lifting up our brother who desires to live a life pleasing to you. Grant him the strength to keep you first in his life, to turn away from all idols, and to honor your name in all he does. Help him to find rest and peace in you, to honor his parents, and to live in love and reconciliation with his brothers and sisters. Guard his heart and mind from lust, and help him to walk in integrity, contentment, and gratitude. Fill him with your Spirit, that he may walk in your ways and bear the fruit of the Spirit.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.