Introduction
Your first priority is the Kingdom of God! In the quest for success, security, and personal fulfilment, it is easy to become consumed by pursuing worldly aspirations such as wealth, status, and material possessions. Yet amidst this common mindset, Yeshua presents a transformative viewpoint in Matthew 6:33. He encourages a shift in priorities, urging us to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, suggesting that true fulfilment and purpose can be found not in what we acquire but in our relationship with Yahweh and the values we uphold.
This powerful message calls us to reconsider our definitions of success and to focus on what truly matters in life. This verse goes beyond mere encouragement; it encapsulates a vital principle for living that can shape our entire existence. It serves as a compelling reminder that when we prioritise Yahweh’s kingdom above all else, we often find that everything else in our lives remarkably falls into place. By focusing on seeking the kingdom first—through prayer, service, and a commitment to living according to His teachings—we create a foundation that influences our decisions, relationships, and overall sense of purpose.
Let us delve deeper into what it means to seek Yahweh’s kingdom first. This involves acknowledging His sovereignty and aligning our lives with His values and mission. It calls us to engage in acts of kindness, strive for justice, and cultivate a heart that reflects love and compassion. When we make this conscious choice to prioritise Yahweh, we open ourselves up to experiencing a transformation in various aspects of our lives, from our emotional well-being to our interactions with those around us.
Ultimately, by making the kingdom our primary focus, we can lead lives filled with fulfilment and joy rooted in a purpose that transcends our everyday challenges.
Understanding the Kingdom of God
What Is the Kingdom of God?
The kingdom of God embodies the divine sovereignty and governance of Yahweh, where His will is acted upon on earth just as it is in the heavenly realms, as articulated in Matthew 6:10. Rather than representing a physical land or territory, the kingdom is a spiritual reality that flourishes where Yahweh’s authority reigns supreme, and His values are cherished and manifested. According to Romans 14:17, the kingdom of God is described as follows:
This verse vividly underscores the essence of Yahweh’s kingdom, which is rooted in spiritual values rather than being driven by worldly or material interests. It illuminates the qualities of righteousness, peace, and joy, deeply felt through the Holy Spirit’s active presence and transformative work. These attributes not only define the nature of the kingdom but also reflect the inner contentment and harmony that come from a life aligned with divine principles.
When we earnestly seek the kingdom, we intentionally align our lives with Yahweh’s higher purposes, embarking on a life-changing journey that prioritises justice, radiates love, and upholds truth in all its forms.
Why Seek It First?
Yeshua emphasises the importance of seeking the kingdom of God as the primary focus in our lives, as it serves as the foundation upon which all else is built. His message offers a refreshing perspective in a society that constantly drives us to pursue material wealth, personal comfort, and social recognition. The relentless chase for these fleeting, worldly pursuits can often lead to emptiness and dissatisfaction.
When we intentionally prioritise eternal values and seek out the kingdom first, we open ourselves to a deeper understanding of our purpose in life. This conscious decision invites a sense of fulfilment beyond mere earthly achievements. By aligning our priorities with scriptural principles, we create space for Yahweh’s abundant provision to manifest in our lives, meeting our physical, emotional, and spiritual needs in ways we may not have anticipated.
Psalm 37:25 provides comfort and reassurance, declaring that even in moments of hardship, we can trust the Lord’s faithfulness. The promise in this verse reminds us that the righteous are never forsaken, nor do they endure scarcity. When we place our trust in Yahweh by seeking His kingdom first, we find He provides for us in our times of need, guiding and nurturing us as we navigate the complexities of life.
How to Seek the Kingdom First
Put Yahweh at the Centre:
Putting the kingdom of God at the forefront of our lives begins with establishing a deep and personal relationship with Him. This involves making Yeshua the centre of our thoughts, decisions, and actions. Proverbs 3:5- 6 emphasises this principle beautifully, encouraging us to trust the Lord with all our hearts and not lean on our understanding. Instead, we are called to acknowledge Him in all our ways, ensuring He will guide our paths. By prioritising our connection with Yahweh and seeking His wisdom and direction, we lay the foundation for a fulfilling spiritual journey and a life that reflects His kingdom values.
In daily life, strive to make decisions that reflect your commitment to Yahweh, whether you’re contemplating career paths or navigating personal relationships. Embrace the wisdom in His Word to illuminate your choices, allowing it to steer your thoughts and actions. Cultivate a deep trust in His divine plan, recognising that His guidance exceeds your understanding and aspirations. By doing so, you’ll be better aligned with His purpose for your life.
Pursue Righteousness:
Righteousness entails living by Yahweh’s standards, encompassing a commitment to integrity, compassion, and adherence to His commands. It is a holistic approach to life that reflects a deep understanding of moral principles and a willingness to uphold them in all circumstances.
The biblical passage Micah 6:8 encapsulates this concept succinctly: it emphasises the importance of acting justly, demonstrating mercy, and walking humbly with Yahweh. These three pillars highlight the internal attitudes we should foster, our outward actions toward others, and our relationship with the divine. Living righteously means embodying these qualities daily, fostering a community rooted in kindness and justice.
Engage in Prayer and Worship:
Prayer directly connects to Yahweh, offering us the invaluable opportunity to seek His guidance, wisdom, and comfort. It allows us to cultivate an intimate relationship with Him, inviting His presence into our lives. Meanwhile, worship acts as a transformative experience, shifting our attention away from the myriad distractions of the world and redirecting it toward the awe-inspiring greatness of His being. By prioritising these spiritual practices, we draw closer to Yahweh and expand our understanding of His kingdom, gaining insights into His love, His purpose for our lives, and the beauty of His creation. Through these acts, we embark on spiritual growth and enlightenment.
What Happens When We Seek the Kingdom First
Yahweh Provides for Our Needs:
In Matthew 6:33, Yeshua encourages us to prioritise Yahweh’s kingdom. He assures us that when we dedicate our attention and efforts to seeking Him and His righteousness, He will graciously provide for our material and emotional needs. This message of assurance is further supported by Philippians 4:19, which emphasises that Yahweh will supply all our needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus. These verses remind us of the peace and provision from a faithful focus on Yahweh. While life may not be devoid of obstacles and difficulties, it assures us that we can rely on Yahweh to provide the strength and support we need to persevere through them.
Our Priorities Are Transformed:
Prioritising the pursuit of the kingdom first leads to rethinking what we hold dear. The allure of material possessions and the fleeting nature of worldly accomplishments diminish in significance compared to the importance of spiritual growth and the cultivation of meaningful relationships. In Colossians 3:2, we are reminded to elevate our thoughts and aspirations, focusing not on the transient and superficial but on the values that nourish the soul and foster deeper connections with others.
We Experience Inner Peace:
Focusing on Yahweh’s kingdom instils peace, surpassing worldly challenges or uncertainties. As highlighted in Isaiah 26:3, this promise reassures us that those who trust in Him will be enveloped in perfect tranquillity, regardless of their trials.
Practical Ways to Seek the Kingdom Daily
Start Your Day with Yahweh:
Start each day by immersing yourself in prayer and Scripture reading. This intentional practice fosters a kingdom-focused mindset, guiding your thoughts and actions in alignment with Yahweh’s divine will. As you engage in these moments of reflection and connection, you will find clarity and purpose, allowing your day to unfold under the gentle guidance of spiritual insight.
Serve Others:
The kingdom of God is fundamentally rooted in love and the spirit of service to one another. It invites us to seek moments where we can uplift others, whether through simple acts of kindness, dedicating our time to volunteer efforts, or sharing the message of our faith. In this journey of compassion, we can find inspiration in Matthew 25:40, which reminds us that every act of love we extend to those in need is, in essence, a service to Yahweh Himself. By embracing this calling, we can enrich both our lives and the lives of those around us.
Be a Steward of God’s Resources:
Effectively manage your time, skills, and financial resources to honour Yahweh in all that you do. Embrace a spirit of generosity by giving generously to others, and practice wise stewardship of your blessings. This approach reflects a mindset that prioritises Yahweh’s kingdom above all else, allowing you to make impactful contributions to your community and align your actions with your faith.
Share the Gospel of the Kingdom:
Pursuing the kingdom involves embracing its values and expanding its reach by sharing the transformative message of the kingdom of God. As representatives of the kingdom, as described in 2 Corinthians 5:20, we must convey His love and truth to every corner of the world. This mission calls us to embody His teachings and demonstrate His compassion in our interactions, reaching out to others with hope and encouragement. Through our actions and words, we can illuminate the path to His kingdom, inviting others to experience its love, peace and joy.
The Eternal Rewards of Kingdom Living
When we place the importance of Yahweh’s kingdom at the forefront of our lives, the benefits and effects resonate far beyond our earthly existence. Yeshua offers a powerful reminder in Matthew 6:20, encouraging us to focus on eternal and imperishable treasures. Unlike material possessions, these treasures cannot be diminished by time or lost to the uncertainties of life. Instead, they anchor our hopes in a divine promise that transcends the temporal world, guiding our hearts toward a purpose that endures forever.
The blessings of living in the kingdom of God encompass a variety of fulfilling aspects:
- Eternal Life: Embracing the promise of eternal existence in the glorious presence of God, where love, peace, and joy abound forever.
- A Legacy of Faith: Cultivating a lasting impact through our life journey, inspiring those around to pursue a deeper relationship with Yahweh and encouraging future generations to seek His kingdom.
- Joy and Fulfilment: Experiencing the richness of life that Yeshua spoke of in John 10:10, where each day is filled with purpose, happiness, and the deep satisfaction of living in alignment with Yahweh’s will.
Conclusion:
The key to discovering a truly fulfilling and successful life lies in intentionally prioritising the kingdom of God. By seeking His will, embodying a life of righteousness, and placing our trust in His generous provision, we can align our daily lives with eternal values that cultivate peace, purpose, and joy.
The words of Yeshua in Matthew 6:33 resonate deeply, serving not merely as a command but as a heartfelt invitation to embrace a life brimming with meaning and partnership. This call encourages us to shift our focus, allowing the kingdom of God to become our foremost priority. When we make this conscious choice, we invite the harmony of divine order into our lives, enabling everything else to fall beautifully into place, revealing a path enriched with fulfilment and grace.
The last sentence threw me off balance a bit. I would have thought the opposite. He did something for you and presumably He can do the same for another man too. Anyway, yet another good blog Mr Ambassador. I see the order I see priority exists.
Thank you for another well-crafted comment wellie, order and priority exist, the problem is our priority, and Yahweh’s priorities are different. And because He is not a respecter of people, no matter your gender, or colour, your ethnicity (not race because there is only one race and that is the human race) or where you come from; if you make His kingdom your priority He will do the same for you too. What a great God we serve.