SEEKING FIRST THE KINGDOM

SEEKING FIRST THE KINGDOM

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 6:33

Key Verse: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33)

Supporting Texts: Colossians 3:1-2, Psalm 37:4, Romans 14:17, Proverbs 3:5-6, Luke 12:31

Description: This study reveals the importance of placing God and His Kingdom above every earthly pursuit and living with eternal priorities.

INTRODUCTION

In Matthew chapter 6, Jesus addressed human worries about food, clothing, provision, and daily necessities. In the midst of these concerns, He gave a powerful instruction: “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness.”

This verse reveals God’s divine order for the believer’s life. Many people pursue wealth, success, comfort, recognition, and earthly security while giving little attention to their spiritual lives. However, Jesus taught that when God’s Kingdom becomes the believer’s highest priority, God Himself takes responsibility for the needs of that person.

Seeking first the Kingdom means placing God’s will, righteousness, presence, and purpose above personal ambition and worldly desires. It involves wholehearted devotion, obedience, and surrender to God’s rule and authority.

1. THE KINGDOM OF GOD MUST BE OUR HIGHEST PRIORITY

God desires first place in every area of life.

a) Jesus commanded believers to seek the Kingdom first (Matthew 6:33)
God’s rule and purpose should take priority over earthly pursuits and anxieties.

b) God refuses divided devotion (Matthew 6:24)
Believers cannot fully serve God while being controlled by worldly desires.

c) Loving God wholeheartedly is the greatest commandment (Deuteronomy 6:5)
God desires complete affection, loyalty, and surrender from His people.

d) Eternal priorities bring lasting fulfilment (Colossians 3:1-2)
Focusing on spiritual things helps believers live wisely and purposefully.

Biblical Example:
Solomon initially prioritised God’s wisdom and Kingdom responsibilities, and God added riches and honour to his life (1 Kings 3:9-13).

2. SEEKING THE KINGDOM INVOLVES PURSUING RIGHTEOUSNESS

Kingdom seekers pursue holy and obedient living.

a) Jesus connected the Kingdom with righteousness (Matthew 6:33)
Seeking God includes living according to His standards and commands.

b) Righteousness reflects God’s nature (1 Peter 1:15-16)
Believers are called to holiness in thoughts, actions, and conduct.

c) Obedience strengthens fellowship with God (John 14:21)
Those who obey God experience deeper intimacy and spiritual growth.

d) The Holy Spirit empowers righteous living (Galatians 5:16)
Spiritual victory comes through dependence upon God’s Spirit.

Biblical Example:
Daniel remained committed to righteousness despite pressure and corruption in Babylon (Daniel 6:3-5).

3. SEEKING THE KINGDOM REQUIRES TRUSTING GOD COMPLETELY

Faith replaces worry when believers depend upon God.

a) God knows every need of His children (Matthew 6:32)
Believers do not need to live in fear or anxiety over provision.

b) Trusting God brings peace and stability (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Dependence upon God leads to divine direction and wisdom.

c) God faithfully provides for those who seek Him (Psalm 37:25)
The Lord sustains and cares for His people continually.

d) Faith focuses on God rather than circumstances (Hebrews 11:6)
Kingdom living requires confidence in God’s goodness and faithfulness.

Biblical Example:
Elijah trusted God during famine, and the Lord provided for him supernaturally (1 Kings 17:8-16).

4. GOD ADDS BLESSINGS TO THOSE WHO PRIORITISE HIS KINGDOM

God honours those who place Him first.

a) “All these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33)
God promises to supply the needs of those who seek Him sincerely.

b) Kingdom living produces divine favour (Psalm 84:11)
God blesses those who walk uprightly before Him.

c) Spiritual priorities bring eternal rewards (Matthew 6:19-20)
Heavenly treasures are more valuable than temporary earthly possessions.

d) God rewards faithful devotion openly (Hebrews 11:6)
The Lord honours those who diligently seek and serve Him.

Biblical Example:
The widow of Zarephath honoured God first through obedience, and her household experienced supernatural provision (1 Kings 17:13-16).

CONCLUSION

Jesus taught believers to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. This means placing God above worldly pursuits, living in obedience, trusting His provision, and pursuing eternal priorities.

When believers make God the centre of life, they experience peace, divine direction, spiritual growth, and God’s faithful provision. Kingdom-focused living produces both present blessings and eternal rewards.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, help me to seek Your Kingdom above all else in Jesus name

2. Father, remove every worldly distraction from my life in Jesus name

3. Lord, give me a heart that longs for righteousness and holiness in Jesus name

4. Father, teach me to trust You completely in every situation in Jesus name

5. Lord, help me to place You first in all my decisions and pursuits in Jesus name

6. Father, strengthen my devotion and commitment to Your Kingdom in Jesus name

7. Lord, let my life reflect Your will and purpose continually in Jesus name

8. Father, grant me wisdom to live according to eternal priorities in Jesus name

9. Lord, provide all my needs according to Your riches and grace in Jesus name

10. Father, let my life continually bring glory and honour to Your name in Jesus name

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. Your heart shall remain focused on God’s Kingdom and righteousness!

2. Every distraction pulling you away from God is broken today!

3. God shall strengthen your faith and devotion continually!

4. Divine provision and favour shall follow your life!

5. You shall walk in wisdom, peace, and spiritual stability!

6. God shall honour your obedience and faithfulness!

7. Every fear concerning your needs and future shall disappear!

8. Your life shall produce lasting spiritual fruit and Kingdom impact!

9. You shall grow deeper in holiness, intimacy, and fellowship with God!

10. The blessings and rewards of Kingdom living shall manifest greatly in your life!