But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well (Matt. 6:33).
Matthew 6:33 is a verse rich with promise. It is profound in its simplicity. “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” These words were spoken by Jesus during the Sermon on the Mount. They serve as a guiding principle for those who long to live a life grounded in faith and purpose. It reminds us that our priorities matter. When God is at the center, everything else finds its rightful place.
Understanding the Verse
To seek the kingdom of God first means aligning our desires with God’s principles. Our efforts and decisions must also align with the principles of God’s reign. It is not merely a directive but an invitation to trust in divine provision. The “all these things” referred to in the passage points to the basic needs of life—food, drink, and clothing. Jesus mentions these needs earlier in the chapter. In essence, the verse highlights that when we make God our ultimate pursuit. He ensures that our earthly needs are met.
Seeking His righteousness involves cultivating a heart and life that reflect God’s character: love, mercy, justice, and humility. It is not about striving for perfection on our own but about surrendering to His life-changing work within us.
Practical Steps to Seek the Kingdom First
· Prayer and Scripture: Begin each day in communion with God through prayer and by meditating on His Word. Let His truth shape your thoughts and actions.
· Prioritize Service: Engage in acts of kindness and service to others. This reflects the values of the kingdom. Love your neighbor as yourself.
· Trust in His Timing: Avoid being consumed by worry or anxiety. Trust that God is faithful to provide as you focus on His will.
· Live with Intentionality: Evaluate how you spend your time, energy, and resources. Invest in what advances His kingdom rather than fleeting pursuits.
Personal Reflection
For me, embracing Matthew 6:33 has been a journey of learning to let go of control. There have been times in my life when I was focused on achieving personal goals. I was also trying hard to meet societal expectations. These pursuits often left me feeling overwhelmed and unfulfilled. It was during these times that this verse became a lifeline.
I began seeking God first. I dedicated my mornings to prayer. I consciously chose to trust Him in uncertain situations. Then, I noticed a profound shift. Needs I had once stressed over seemed to resolve themselves in ways I could not have orchestrated. More importantly, a deep sense of peace filled me. Joy came from knowing I was walking in alignment with His purpose.
Conclusion
Matthew 6:33 is not just an instruction; it is a promise. It reassures us that when we prioritize God’s kingdom and righteousness, we step into a life marked by divine provision. This life is also marked by peace. Let this verse be a daily compass, guiding you to live with faith, trust, and intentionality. Seek Him first, and you will find that everything else falls into the right place.
May the love of God shine through us, bringing hope, healing, and transformation to those around us. Amen.
Minister A. Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 