What does Jesus mean when he says in Matthew 6:33 to “seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you”? Specifically, I’m interested in understanding what it practically means to “seek” the kingdom. Is it about prioritizing prayer and Bible study? Is it about social justice and helping the poor? Is it a combination of these things, or something else entirely? And what are the implications of “his righteousness” being linked to seeking the kingdom? Furthermore, how does this “seeking” differ from merely being a believer or attending church? How might someone actively reorient their life to genuinely prioritize seeking the Kingdom above material possessions and worldly concerns, and what are some concrete examples of what that looks like in daily life in the 21st century?
Answer
When Jesus says "seek first the kingdom of God," he means to prioritize God’s reign, will, and purposes above all other concerns in life. It signifies a fundamental reorientation of values and priorities, placing God at the center of one’s existence. This involves:
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Prioritizing God’s Will: Actively seeking to understand and obey God’s commands as revealed in Scripture and through the guidance of the Holy Spirit. This involves aligning one’s thoughts, words, and actions with God’s character and principles.
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Living Righteously: Striving for moral and ethical integrity in all aspects of life, reflecting God’s holiness and justice. This includes honesty, compassion, forgiveness, and love for others.
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Embracing God’s Values: Adopting a worldview that is shaped by God’s perspective, which often contrasts with worldly values such as wealth, power, and prestige. This means valuing humility, service, and spiritual growth over material possessions and social status.
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Trusting in God’s Provision: Relying on God to meet one’s needs and trusting in his sovereignty over all circumstances. This involves relinquishing control and placing faith in God’s ability to provide for one’s physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
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Sharing the Gospel: Participating in the spread of God’s kingdom by sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with others. This can involve evangelism, discipleship, and acts of service that demonstrate God’s love and compassion.
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Investing in Eternal Rewards: Focusing on activities and investments that have eternal value, rather than pursuing temporal pleasures or earthly possessions that will eventually fade away. This includes building relationships, serving others, and growing in spiritual maturity.
- Living in Anticipation of God’s Reign: Living as a citizen of God’s kingdom in the present, while also looking forward to the future consummation of his kingdom on earth. This involves living with hope, perseverance, and a longing for God’s justice and peace to prevail.
In essence, seeking first the kingdom of God is a call to radical discipleship, where every aspect of life is submitted to God’s authority and directed toward his purposes. It is a lifelong pursuit that requires constant vigilance, prayer, and reliance on the Holy Spirit.
Pray This Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We come before you today, humbled by the profound words of your Son, Jesus. He calls us to "seek first the kingdom of God," and we confess that often our vision is clouded, our priorities misplaced, and our hearts drawn to things that ultimately fail to satisfy.
What does Jesus mean by this, Lord? Open our understanding. Help us to see that seeking your kingdom isn’t simply about striving for a place in heaven after we die. Rather, it is about striving to live in accordance with your will now, here on Earth. It is about aligning our thoughts, actions, and desires with your righteousness, your justice, your love, and your peace.
Grant us the wisdom to discern what truly matters in your sight. Remind us that your kingdom is not built on earthly possessions or power, but on humility, compassion, and service to others.
Help us to prioritize:
- Your presence in our lives: Let us seek you in prayer, in scripture, and in fellowship with other believers.
- Your will in our decisions: Guide us to make choices that honor you and reflect your values.
- Your love in our relationships: Empower us to love others as you have loved us, with grace, forgiveness, and unwavering commitment.
- Your justice in our world: Inspire us to advocate for the marginalized, to stand against oppression, and to work towards a world where all your children can thrive.
Forgive us, Father, for the times we have chased after fleeting pleasures and worldly achievements, forgetting the enduring treasure of your kingdom. Help us to re-center our lives on you, seeking your kingdom first in all that we do.
We ask this in the name of Jesus, who taught us to pray, "Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven."
Amen.
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