SEEK FIRST THE KINGDOM
Ever wonder why some Christians live a joyful, and prosperous life? There is one big clue that can be found in the book of Matthew. In the 33rd verse of the 6th chapter of Matthew we find the following: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (NKJV)
Do you ever wonder what a kingdom is? What does it mean to seek? What is His righteousness? And what are those things that shall be added to you?
Kingdom, defined by the Cambridge dictionary states, “a country ruled by a King or a Queen.” In 1st Chronicles 29:11, during Solomon’s Anointing ceremony, King David declares God as King of all when he states “Yours, O Lord, is the greatness, the power and the glory, The victory and the majesty; For all that is in heaven and in earth is Yours; Yours is the Kingdom, O Lord, and You are exalted as head over all.” (NKJV) When we believe in Jesus and accept Him as our Lord and Savior, we enter God’s kingdom as His sons and daughters.
Seek means to go in search of or attempt to find. How do we search for the Kingdom? We pray. We read our bible. We Fast. When we combine these three things, we are diligently seeking the Kingdom of God.
Prayer is simple. Prayer is entering into a conversation with God. God is already waiting to hear from you. Remember a conversation is not one person doing all the talking, give God space to respond to you. Second, read your Bible.
Did I just hear you complain on the other side of this screen? Yes, many people struggle to get into the Word. If reading it is difficult for you, how about listening to it? There are so many audio bible options and many are free! Just start, God will meet you where you are. Soon, you will not be able to wait for the next time you get to be in the Word. The Bible is the living breathing Word of the most High King and it speaks to us every time. Also, it renews our minds, so if you are struggling with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, loneliness, insecurity, things of that nature, the Bible can help with that! You can find physical healing too! You just have to start reading or listening to the WORD! Next, let’s look at fasting.
There are different types of fasting, some examples of fast are 1 day(sometimes referred to as sun up to sun down) fast, 3 day fast, the Daniel Fast and others. Fasting is to restrain from food or types of foods for a specific period of time. That time that has been set apart should be used to seek God in prayer and reading the Word. Fasting is a physical action that causes things to change in the spirit realm. 2nd Chronicles 7:14 states, “...if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” (NKJV). Fasting clears the noise and clutter that we are constantly surrounded by in this world. It allows us to encounter God in a special way.
Lastly, righteousness is to be morally correct. God is the only one that is righteous, when we seek Him and become His son or daughter, He gives us His righteousness. So how do all these things result in a joyful and prosperous Christian? Psalm 31:19, states “Oh, how great is Your goodness, Which You have laid up for those who fear You, Which You have prepared for those who trust in You, In the presence of the sons of men!” (NKJV) The Word states that God’s goodness is great and it's for those who fear and trust in Him. Each relationship with God is unique and He knows your needs, wants and desires. He enjoys giving good gifts to His children. What are you waiting for, goodness is waiting for you if you trust and are in awe of Him! Seek first the Kingdom!
-The Team at Rise Lioness Co