First things first

### First Things First: Seeking the Kingdom of God

In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. We're bombarded with distractions—work, relationships, financial obligations—that can easily take precedence over our spiritual journey. Yet, as believers, we are called to prioritize what is eternal over the temporary.

Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:33, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” This profound command encapsulates the essence of our faith. When we put God first, everything else finds its rightful place.

#### The Priority of His Kingdom

What does it mean to seek first the Kingdom of God? It means aligning our hearts and minds with His will. It’s about creating space in our lives for Him—through prayer, studying His Word, and engaging in community with fellow believers. This pursuit isn’t just a checklist; it's a heartfelt commitment to nurturing our relationship with our Creator.

When we prioritize God, we cultivate an environment where His peace, joy, and purpose can flourish. The things that once seemed overwhelming—our responsibilities, challenges, and worries—begin to lose their grip on us. We discover that in His kingdom, we are not defined by our possessions, status, or achievements.

#### The Righteousness That Matters

In our pursuit of the Kingdom, we must also seek His righteousness. This righteousness is not something we can earn; it is a gift given freely through Jesus Christ. It’s the realization that we are made right with God not by our works, but by His grace.

When we understand this truth, we can let go of the burdens that weigh us down. We cease striving to find our worth in what we have or how we perform. Instead, we rest in the knowledge that our identity is rooted in Christ. This shift in perspective allows us to focus on what truly matters—living out His love and sharing His grace with others.

#### The Temporary vs. the Eternal

Everything we see around us is temporary. Our houses, cars, bank accounts, and even our daily needs will fade away. Jesus challenges us to reflect on what we are truly valuing in our lives. Are we pouring our energy into things that will ultimately pass away? Or are we investing in the eternal, in the Kingdom of God?

When we make the conscious decision to prioritize His kingdom, we find clarity and purpose. We begin to view our lives through a divine lens, recognizing that our time, talents, and resources are meant for something greater than ourselves.

#### Conclusion: Make Him First

In a world that constantly pushes us to chase after fleeting things, let’s make a commitment to seek first the Kingdom of God. Let’s remind ourselves daily that nothing matters more than being in His kingdom and having His righteousness.

As we do this, we can trust that everything else will fall into place. We will experience a peace that surpasses understanding, knowing that we are anchored in the eternal truth of His love and grace.

Let us challenge ourselves to put first things first, allowing our lives to reflect the priorities of heaven. When we seek Him above all else, we become vessels of His light, sharing His love and hope with a world in need.