Matthew 6:33 is a well-known verse in the Christian Bible that states,
"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
This verse is often cited as a call to prioritize one's relationship with God above all else, and to trust that He will provide for one's needs.
The context of this verse is important to understanding its meaning. In the preceding verses, Jesus is teaching his disciples about worry and anxiety, cautioning them not to be consumed by concerns about material possessions like food, clothing, and shelter. Instead, he tells them to trust in God's provision and to seek His kingdom first and foremost.
What does it mean to seek God's kingdom? In a general sense, it means to prioritize the things that matter to God over the things that matter to us. This includes pursuing righteousness, justice, and compassion, and aligning our lives with His will. It means putting God's desires above our own, and seeking to glorify Him in all that we do.
But seeking God's kingdom isn't just about doing good works; it's also about cultivating a personal relationship with God. This means spending time in prayer and worship, reading and meditating on His Word, and seeking His guidance in all aspects of our lives. When we prioritize our relationship with God in this way, we can trust that He will provide for our needs, just as Jesus promises in Matthew 6:33.
It's worth noting that Jesus isn't saying that we should ignore our physical needs or that we shouldn't work hard to provide for ourselves and our families. Rather, He is reminding us that our ultimate source of provision and security is God Himself. When we seek His kingdom first, we can trust that He will provide everything we need to fulfill His purposes for our lives.
In a world that often values success, wealth, and material possessions above all else, Matthew 6:33 offers a powerful reminder that there is something far more valuable: a relationship with the Creator of the universe. When we seek His kingdom first, everything else falls into its proper place.
