What Does “Seek First the Kingdom of God” Mean in Matthew 6:33?
The phrase sounds easy enough — seek first the kingdom of God. In Matthew 6:33 (ESV) it says: “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
What Does it Mean to Seek God’s Kingdom?
Children love playing hide and seek — a game in which all but one participant hides with the intent of being the last one found. But it wouldn’t amount to much if one person didn’t seek the others, would it? Consider us the “it” seeking God’s Kingdom with all we have, looking in every nook and cranny until our search results in us finding Him.
The NAS New Testament Greek Lexicon defines “seek first” by seeking in order to find, to aim at or strive after. It also means to look for, go after, to search for.
God remains available and ready for us to find Him, to look for and worship Him in those anxiety-riddled situations. Do we run to worship, searching for God the way we easily lean and rely on worry? To seek God’s kingdom means we’ve made a conscience decision to turn toward God versus anxiety or worry.
7 Ways to Seek First God’s Kingdom Every Day
There are various ways to seek first God’s kingdom. Seven tips are listed below:
1. Prayer
1 Thessalonians 5:17 challenges us to pray continually. Many other Bible verses offer a similar message. Prayer is important.
Jesus spoke to the Father often, relaying that importance. He prayed with many people and in groups, but He also spent time alone with God. And during those solitary moments with His Father, we note an intimate communion between the two of them such as in Matthew 26, verses 39, 42, and 44. That opportunity for intimacy through prayer exists for us, too.
2. Bible Reading
It’s easy enough to rely on our pastor or other spiritual leaders to feed us God’s Word, as many of them have wonderful insight. But our Father wants to meet with us personally, and He often does that through Scripture. Why rely solely on man when something much more personal remains available?
God gave us His word so that we can keep our way pure, according to Psalm 119:9. It’s a light unto our path and lamp for our feet according to Psalm 119:105. When we’ve read and know the Bible and the promises of God, we’re strengthened to stand firm against sin. Because we’ve spent time with Him through His Word, our relationship deepens. This is a means of seeking first God’s kingdom.
3. Worship
Have you ever worshiped in your living room, outside, or among the church pews? This time of intimacy, simply recognizing God as the Almighty and honoring Him for who He is, ushers us into His presence. If at a loss for words, try reading and praying a Psalm (or several) to God. These Bible verses are full of worship. Consider a hymn or other worship song as well.
4. Repentance