But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also. Matthew 6:33 AMP
The Inspiration:
This is part of the first sermon of Jesus recorded in the Bible. He took his disciples up a mountain, and sat down and taught them the principles, practices and processes of God's kingdom. All who will be a part of the kingdom must follow its rules. The crowd, as usual, was present everywhere Jesus went, but today's verse is not for the crowd, but for those who understand the demands of the kingdom and are willing to submit to and pursue those demands. The Kingdom of God takes priority over all other important things, and it is only when I also take it as my most important priority that its benefits and blessings will be mine. I am allowed to seek many things, but the kingdom of God must be the most pressing of all. What is my priority now?
The Expectation:
The Kingdom of God does not allow opposition. You really cannot resist it. It may look like you are independent, because God does not force himself on anyone, but this is a kingdom with a king, loyal subjects, a territory, and of course, enemies. The King is the Lord and Master over all He oversees, and he has standards which are not subject to negotiation, debate or compromise. The King has a duty to provide for all who are his loyal subjects, and He will defend them to the end. You cannot lay claim to the benefits and resources of a country whose king you do not submit to. You cannot claim the protection and provision of a country you are not a citizen or resident of. Have I defined my citizenship or residence status? Does the scope of the kingdom of God extend to me?
The Conclusion:
If there is anything I need, I must first get the One who is all I need. It is God who provides all that I need for life and Godliness, and no demand on earth can exhaust the resources of heaven. When God already holds and owns my heart, He knows that nothing and no one else can take His place in my heart. He knows that I am totally sold out to Him, and if He could give Himself totally for me, there is nothing else too big or too much for Him to give me in addition. He sent Jesus to die for my sin, and He has secured eternal life with God for me. That is His most precious gift; life eternal with Him. What else could be more important? What else won't He give, so I can enjoy this life, as well as the one to come? He's done His bit; what would we give in return? God's time of favour is here.
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