Prioritizing God's Kingdom
A Reflection on Matthew 6:33
In the heart of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus delivers a powerful message on priorities. Matthew 6:33 reads, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” This verse encapsulates a radical approach to life and faith—one that challenges us to re-evaluate what truly matters.
Understanding Jesus’ Priority
Jesus' teaching in Matthew 6 is not merely a directive but a profound insight into the nature of God's kingdom. To appreciate the depth of this teaching, let’s consider the broader context of Matthew 6:30-33. Here, Jesus addresses common human anxieties about provision—what to eat, drink, or wear. He contrasts these concerns with the assurance of God's provision, underscoring the futility of worry when we trust in God's care.
Verse 33 is particularly striking: “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” At first glance, it might seem that Jesus promises a sort of divine transaction—seek God, and in return, receive everything you need. However, this interpretation misses the deeper message.
The Essence of Ordered Love
Drawing from Augustine, a 4th-century African bishop, we see that the issue isn’t merely about receiving blessings but about realigning our affections. Augustine spoke of "ordered love," where our desires are set in proper alignment with God's will. In this framework, seeking God's kingdom first is not a quid-pro-quo arrangement but an invitation to re-order our loves and priorities.
John Piper echoes this sentiment, stating, “We are most satisfied when God is most glorified.” In other words, true fulfillment comes when we place God at the center of our lives. Our satisfaction and the provision of our needs flow from our relationship with Him, not as a transactional reward but as a natural outcome of our reoriented hearts.
Application to Support Raising
For those involved in support raising, this perspective is transformative. Support raising isn’t just about gathering financial resources; it’s about engaging in a mission driven by a passion for God's kingdom. When we seek first the kingdom of God, our approach to support raising shifts. It’s not about begging or merely asking for money—it’s about inviting others into a shared vision of God’s work.
Reflection Questions
What are you seeking besides the kingdom of God and His righteousness? Reflect on what other priorities might be competing for your attention and energy. Are there aspects of your life where you’re seeking satisfaction outside of God’s kingdom?
How would your approach to support raising change if you fully embraced the view that everything is found in God? Consider how internalizing the belief that God provides for all needs might alter your methods and motivations in support raising.
If you truly sought the kingdom of God and His righteousness, what obstacles might you overcome in your support raising efforts? Think about potential barriers that might be holding you back from pursuing support with wholehearted dedication and how realigning your priorities could help overcome them.
As we engage with these questions, let us remember that seeking God’s kingdom first isn’t about achieving a checklist but about experiencing a profound reordering of our loves. The King of the Universe sought us first, and in response, we can prioritize His kingdom above all else. This realignment transforms our lives and our mission, bringing us into a deeper relationship with Him and a more impactful pursuit of His work.
