“Real” images of the Kingdom of God are generally interpreted as metaphorical or spiritual, rather than a physical location. Biblically, the Kingdom is described through parables as a growing mustard seed, hidden treasure, or yeast. It is described as an inner spiritual reality, marked by righteousness and love. The Kingdom of God is primarily the invisible, spiritual reign of God over the hearts of believers and his sovereign rule over creation, characterized by righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17). Seeking first the kingdom of God and His Righteousness will help us elevate our relationship with God.
Dependence on the Lord
In Matthew 6:19-34, part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, our Saviour focuses on the human tendency to spend our lives pursuing wealth, health and security. We worry about how we will provide for our earthly needs such as what we will eat and wear. Our priorities become divided and misdirected. But Jesus calls His followers to walk a different path, one that is free from anxiety and preoccupation with the cares of this life.
How can we truly seek first His kingdom and His righteousness in a world brimming with distraction, temptations, and competing priorities? The starting place is to give precedence to our relationship with God and our obedience to Him. Above all else, we pursue living in a way that is pleasing to God and consistent with His righteous standards and character.
What is His righteousness? At its core, righteousness for the believer refers to being in right standing with God. It is not something achieved through good works but a gift received through faith: “This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe” (Romans 3:22). We can claim no righteousness of our own. His righteousness comes to us as a loving, merciful gift by grace through faith. So, first, we must receive God’s gift of salvation in Jesus Christ.
Seek first His Righteousness
Then, to continue seeking first His righteousness, we must let God’s Spirit transform our hearts and minds so that our will aligns with God’s will (loving kindness, judgement, and righteousness) and our action begin to reflect His holiness. It’s not about external obedience or legal observance of the law, but an internal posture of submission and dependence on the Lord. It means we look for every opportunity to let God rule and reign over our lives, surrendering our ambitions, desires, and plans to Him.
By urging us to seek first His righteousness, Jesus invites us to trust in God’s providence and provision. When we focus on His kingdom and righteousness, we shift our perspective from temporal concern to eternal truth, finding peace and purpose in God’s plan. Jesus assures us that, when we place complete trust in God, He will provide for our needs. He is reminding us that God alone is our provider. He knows our needs and is faithful to care for us when we walk in His will.
How can we seek first His Righteousness?
Cultivate a Life of Prayer
Prayer is essential to seeking God’s kingdom and His righteousness. Through prayer, we connect with God, seek His guidance, and reorient our hearts with His desires. As we dedicate time each day to spend with Hm, not only making requests but also listening to His voice, we grow closer to Him and more like Jesus.
Study and Meditate on Scripture
God’s Word is a lamp to our feet and a guiding light to our path (Psalm 119:105). By immersing ourselves in the Bible, we come to understand HIs character, His promises, and His expectations. Regular study, meditation, and internalization of Scripture will equip us to live righteously and resist the temptation of the world.
Practice Obedience
The Bible says that faith without works is dead (James 1:27). Seeking His righteousness requires us to act on what we learn from God’s Word. We choose to reflect His love and truth, even when it is difficult or countercultural.
Serve Others
Jesus exemplified servanthood, washing His disciples’ feet and sacrificing Himself for humanity. We seek first His righteousness by serving others selflessly, demonstrating Christ’s love through our actions, helping those in need, and showing kindness in tangible ways.
Participate in the Community of Faith
Fellowship with other believers is crucial. It strengthens our faith and keeps us accountable. We come together in community to foster spiritual growth, offer support during challenging time, and provide opportunities for mutual care, love, and encouragement.
Seeking first first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness is the believer’s lifelong pursuit. It is a daily decision to prioritize our relationship with the Lord, trusting that He has good plans for us that are far better than anything we could imagine. As we elevate our relationship with God above all else, we find not only His blessings of peace, purpose, and provision but also the abundant joy of dwelling in His presence (Psalm 23).