Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God: Finding Eternal Fulfillment
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness.” This wasn’t just a recommendation, Christ commanded us to do so. This concept needs to be deeply rooted in our hearts and should hold significant meaning for all followers of Christ. It is a call to prioritize our relationship with God above all else and to align our lives with His will. But what does it truly mean to seek first the kingdom of God? In this article, we will explore the essence of this principle and its implications for our spiritual journey.
The Kingdom of God: A Divine Realm
Before delving into the concept of seeking first the kingdom of God, we must first understand what the kingdom of God represents. Romans 14:17 says “For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” The kingdom of God refers to the reign of God in the hearts and lives of His people. It is not a physical place but rather a spiritual realm where God’s will is acknowledged and followed. Seeking first the kingdom involves recognizing that God’s authority and sovereignty surpass any worldly desires or ambitions. It requires a shift in our priorities, placing God at the center of our lives.
Putting God First in Our Lives
Seeking first the kingdom of God involves making God top priority in every aspect of our lives. It involves seeking His wisdom, following His commandments, and aligning our actions with His teachings. This principle calls us to surrender our will and to start pursuing God’s will. When we seek first the kingdom of God, we prioritize our relationship with Him above all else. It means setting aside time for prayer, studying His Word, and cultivating a deep and intimate relationship with our Creator. We must make Him the first and only master of our lives. The Bible says “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” By putting Him first, we open ourselves to His guidance and allow Him to shape our hearts and minds.
Seeking God’s Will in Decision-Making
To seek something requires action. One practical way to seek first the kingdom of God is by seeking to live according to His will. Instead of relying on our own understanding and desires, we must seek God’s guidance and direction. The Bible says that we are not to lean on our own understanding, but we are to submit to Him and He will direct our paths. It also says, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” We must ask God for guidance in our decision-making process, for He knows what is best. Seeking God’s will requires humility and a willingness to surrender our own agendas. We should be dedicating time each day to spend with our Creator. We must read the Word and meditate on it daily, for it is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. By seeking first the kingdom of God, we align ourselves with His purposes and invite His blessings into our lives.
Living a Life of Love and Service
Seeking first the kingdom of God also involves living a life of love and service to others. Jesus taught that loving God and loving our neighbors are the greatest of all the commandments. For when we fulfill those two, by default, we fulfill the entire law. When we prioritize the kingdom of God, we align ourselves with His heart and become filled with the fruits of the Spirit, which are these, love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. As we seek first the kingdom of God, we become vessels of His love and grace in the world. We experience joy and peace that surpasses all understanding. We extend kindness to those in need, show forgiveness to those who have wronged us, and demonstrate humility in our interactions. By living a life of love and service, we reflect the character of Christ and advance the kingdom of God on earth.
The Rewards of Seeking First the Kingdom of God
Seeking first the kingdom of God is not always easy, but it yields immeasurable rewards. When we prioritize our relationship with God, we experience a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose. We find peace and contentment in knowing that we are living in alignment with His will. Moreover, seeking first the kingdom of God opens the door for God’s blessings and provisions to be poured out into our lives. Jesus assured His followers that when they seek first the kingdom of God, all their needs would be met. This does not mean a life free from challenges or hardships, but rather a life where we can trust in God’s faithfulness and provision.
Conclusion
Seeking first the kingdom of God is a lifelong journey of surrender, obedience, and love. It requires a conscious choice to prioritize our relationship with God above all else and to align our lives with His will. As we seek first the kingdom of God, we experience spiritual growth, find purpose and fulfillment, and become agents of His love and grace in the world.
