Seek First The Kingdom of God

In Matthew chapter 6, Jesus tells us to “seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Prior to this statement, Jesus was teaching people to not be anxious or worry about their material possessions. “Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.”

We live in a society obsessed with getting more of everything imaginable. More possessions, more security, more comfort. Not to mention, it seems every day it gets harder simply to make ends meet. This constant striving breeds a restless pursuit of self-provision, leaving little room for generosity or service. Yet as disciples of Jesus, we are called to live counter-culturally by pursing His kingdom, not our own.

May the following lyrics from a 1985 Christian band (the “Allies”) encourage you:

“Don’t you worry!

Come winter, come summer

Come springtime or fall

I will be here for you

Whenever you call

Come feast or come famine

Come the rumors of war

When My kingdom returns

And death rules no more!

When there’s trouble all around you

And your friends become few

You’ll feel My arms surrounding you

(Don’t you worry)

Tomorrow will take care of itself

I’m takin’ care of you

(Don’t you worry)

You can depend on Me for help

I’ve given My word to you

In good times, in bad times

At the worst time of all

I’ll take over the fight

When your back’s to the wall” – 1985 The Allies (Henry Walter, Lukasz Gottwald, Theron & Timothy Thomas)

Prayer: “Jesus, please help us to be more intentional about focusing not on the things of this world, but on the kingdom of God. Let us cast our anxieties at your feet, knowing that you love us and will provide for us. Please highlight opportunities for us this week to make disciples and serve others. Help us to experience the freedom of focusing on others first, knowing that in doing so you will melt away our anxieties and give us peace.

In Jesus Name, Amen.” – Pastor Larry