Seeking the Kingdom of God and Righteousness: A Call to Holiness and Right Living

Paul’s powerful exhortation in Matthew 6:33, ‘seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness,’ challenges us to prioritize our relationship with God and to pursue a life that aligns with divine values.[1]

Religion and True Piety

True piety is not about engaging in religious rituals for the sake of honoring human beings. Instead, it is about serving and obeying the one and only God, who is perfect and beyond reproach. Every human being falls short, and it is only through faith in Jesus Christ that we are reconciled to God[2].

Members of the Body of Christ

When we are born again, we become members of the Body of Christ, meaning we are part of a spiritual community with Jesus at the center of our lives. Jesus, the Word made flesh, is the ultimate standard for truth and righteousness. He is the only one who is truly alive and active, piercing the deepest parts of our souls and revealing our true desires and intentions[3].

The Pursuit of Holiness and Right Living

So, what does it mean to seek the kingdom of God and his righteousness? It is more than just praying for these blessings; it is about living a life that embodies kindness, love, justice, peace, and all the virtues Jesus teaches. This is not about achieving a perfect life, but about striving to be honest, compassionate, and just in all aspects of life[4].

Practical Implications

Does seeking the kingdom of God and righteousness mean praying first and foremost? Yes, and no. While prayer is essential and a necessary means to know God’s will and receive His guidance, it is not the only action that constitutes seeking the kingdom. It also involves practical actions such as:

Making every decision guided by God’s word and principles Engaging in acts of kindness and charity Being just and fair in all your dealings Living a life of humility and honesty

Being an honest person who loves and supports what is right is more important than seeking a comfortable job or a nice house. It is about establishing a life that brings justice and love into the world, and walking humbly with God.

Jesus’ Command to His Disciples

Just as Jesus instructed his disciples to seek the kingdom of God first, so too should we seek it as a priority in our lives. He came into this world to give eternal life to all who accept Him. He wants to be the source of healing and restoration for all. As we pray and seek the kingdom of God and righteousness, we open ourselves up to the transformative power of His grace and truth.

Conclusion

Let us remember that seeking the kingdom of God and righteousness is a continuous process. It is about prioritizing our relationship with God and aligning our lives with His teachings. May we strive to embody the virtues and values that Jesus exemplified, and in doing so, bring about a greater kingdom of God in our hearts and in the world around us.

References:

[1] Matthew 6:33

[2] Romans 3:23, 3:28-30

[3] Hebrews 4:12, John 1:1-14

[4] Matthew 25:31-46