Seeking first the kingdom of God refers to prioritizing God’s will, righteousness, and the values of His kingdom above all else. This concept emphasizes placing spiritual pursuits and living in accordance with God’s desires at the forefront of one’s life, rather than being overly concerned with material possessions or worries about daily needs.
### Biblical References:
1. **Matthew 6:33**: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” This verse directly instructs believers to prioritize God’s kingdom and His righteousness, assuring them that their needs will be met if they do so.
2. **Matthew 5:3-10**: In the Beatitudes, Jesus outlines the characteristics of those who belong to the kingdom of God, emphasizing humility, mercy, and a thirst for righteousness. This teaches that the values of the kingdom are often contrary to worldly values.
3. **Luke 12:31**: “But seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you.” This reiterates the message found in Matthew, encouraging believers to trust that their material needs will be taken care of when they focus on God.
4. **Romans 14:17**: “For the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” This underscores that the essence of God’s kingdom is not about physical needs or pleasures but about a life characterized by righteousness, peace, and joy.
5. **Colossians 3:1-2**: “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.” This calls believers to focus on spiritual matters and the realities of God’s kingdom.
6. **Matthew 13:44-46**: In these parables, Jesus illustrates the value of the kingdom of heaven, comparing it to hidden treasure and a priceless pearl. This indicates that seeking the kingdom involves recognizing its immense worth and being willing to sacrifice worldly things for it.
In summary, seeking first the kingdom of God calls for a shift in focus from worldly concerns to spiritual priorities, aligning one’s life with God’s purposes and trusting in His provision. It is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith that influences one’s actions and mindset.