Bible Daily

Seeking the Kingdom of God First: A Biblical Perspective on Priorities

Introduction

The Bible, a sacred text for Christians worldwide, offers numerous teachings and parables that guide believers in their spiritual and daily lives. Among these teachings, one of the most profound and frequently cited is Jesus's instruction to "seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness." This directive, found in the Gospel of Matthew, encapsulates a fundamental principle of Christian living: prioritizing spiritual growth and divine will above all else. This article will explore the depth of this teaching, its implications for believers, and how it can be practically applied in modern life.

The Teaching in Context

The Sermon on the Mount

The instruction to seek the kingdom of God first comes from the Sermon on the Mount, one of the most comprehensive teachings of Jesus recorded in the New Testament. In Matthew 6:33, Jesus says:

"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you."

This statement is part of a larger discourse where Jesus addresses various aspects of life, including prayer, fasting, wealth, and worry. Here, He contrasts the pursuit of worldly security with the pursuit of divine things, urging His followers to shift their focus.

Understanding "The Kingdom of God"

To fully grasp Jesus's teaching, one must understand what He means by "the kingdom of God." Throughout the Gospels, Jesus speaks of the kingdom in various parables and teachings:

  • The Kingdom as a Present Reality: Jesus indicates that the kingdom is already here, among His followers, through His presence and teachings (Luke 17:20-21).

  • The Kingdom as a Future Hope: It's also portrayed as a future event where God's rule will be fully realized on earth (Matthew 25:31-46).

  • The Kingdom as a Spiritual Realm: It's a spiritual state where God reigns in the hearts of believers, influencing their thoughts, actions, and priorities.

Righteousness in the Kingdom

Seeking the kingdom of God involves not only acknowledging God's rule but also striving for righteousness. This righteousness is:

  • Not of This World: It's not about human standards or self-righteousness but about aligning with God's will (Philippians 3:9).

  • A Gift Through Faith: Righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the law on our behalf (Romans 3:21-22).

Implications for Believers

Prioritizing Spiritual Growth

Seeking the kingdom first means prioritizing spiritual growth over material accumulation or worldly success. This involves:

  • Daily Devotion: Engaging in prayer, Bible study, and meditation to deepen one's relationship with God.

  • Living Out Faith: Demonstrating faith through actions, as faith without works is dead (James 2:26).

  • Community and Fellowship: Participating in the life of the church, where believers can encourage one another in faith.

Trust in Divine Provision

Jesus promises that when one seeks the kingdom first, "all these things" — food, clothing, and other necessities — will be added. This implies:

  • A Shift in Focus: From worry about provision to trust in God's care, understanding that He knows our needs (Matthew 6:25-34).

  • Contentment: Learning to be content with what God provides, avoiding the trap of greed or materialism (Philippians 4:11-13).

Ethical Living

Seeking God's kingdom involves ethical living that reflects the values of that kingdom:

  • Justice and Mercy: Advocating for the oppressed, showing mercy, and living justly (Micah 6:8).

  • Love and Forgiveness: Emulating Christ's love and forgiveness in personal relationships and broader societal interactions (Ephesians 4:32).

Practical Application in Modern Life

Balancing Spiritual and Secular Life

In a world where success is often measured by wealth, status, and power, applying Jesus's teaching requires a deliberate balance:

  • Time Management: Allocating time for spiritual practices amidst daily responsibilities.

  • Career and Vocation: Viewing one's job or career as a means to serve God and others, not just for personal gain.

  • Financial Stewardship: Using resources in a way that reflects kingdom values, like generosity and support for the needy.

Overcoming Cultural Obstacles

Modern culture presents several challenges to seeking the kingdom first:

  • Materialism: The constant push towards consumerism can distract from spiritual priorities.

  • Secularism: An environment that often marginalizes or ignores spiritual life can make faith seem irrelevant.

  • Individualism: The focus on personal achievement can lead to isolation from community and divine purpose.

Examples from Scripture

The Bible provides numerous examples of individuals who sought God's kingdom first:

  • Abraham: He left his homeland in obedience to God's call, trusting in divine provision (Genesis 12:1-4).

  • David: Despite his kingship, he sought God's heart, prioritizing spiritual integrity over political power (Acts 13:22).

  • The Early Church: The first Christians lived in such a way that their faith was evident in their communal life and generosity (Acts 2:42-47).

Conclusion

Seeking the kingdom of God first is not merely a suggestion but a commandment from Jesus, designed to orient our lives towards eternal values. It challenges us to reassess our priorities, to trust in God's provision, and to live in a way that reflects His kingdom on earth. While this teaching might seem counterintuitive in a world that often glorifies self-interest and material success, it offers a path to true fulfillment, peace, and purpose. By prioritizing the spiritual over the temporal, believers can experience the richness of God's kingdom now and look forward to its full realization in the future. This principle, when applied, not only transforms individual lives but has the potential to influence society towards greater justice, love, and righteousness.