Seek first the kingdom of God (Part Three)

The Lord Jesus makes a beautiful promise to those who seek first the Kingdom of God: … all these things will be added to you (Mt. 6:33c). What are all these things? A few verses earlier Jesus commands two things: Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth (Mt. 6:19), and do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink (v. 25). These are two main concerns of unbelievers, a well-filled bank account and a well-stocked refrigerator. And, of course, the list can be extended. Instead of spending our energy on these things, we should seek the kingdom of God. But do we not also have earthly needs? What happens to them? Who cares for us? With regard to our earthly needs Jesus first of all assures us:

Your Heavenly Father knows that you need them all (v. 32). From the external to the internal emotional needs, no one knows them better than the One who made us. God sees our needs, understands them (often better than we do!) and will not ignore them! On the contrary! To those who seek and promote the Kingdom of God everything else that is necessary will be added. Remember Solomon, who sought wisdom and an obedient heart; things that were important for his ministry in the Kingdom of God. God not only fulfilled this request, but also gave him riches and honour (1 Kings 3:9ff).

God is able, experienced and generous in caring for our needs! He can do this even in the most difficult circumstances. Just think of how He provided for the people of Israel in the desert; three meals a day for a whole nation for 40 years! No problem for the Lord! Every morning the two million received their daily portion of fresh manna! And the Israelites never found a bill attached to their “bag of honey wafers”. “God’s Israel was not only brought to Canaan eventually; they also had their expenses paid through the desert.”** God’s children find in HIM an inventive, generous “master provider”! David once put it this way: Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. (Psalm 37:4).

Does God find us to be “masters of trust” in His abilities? If God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? (Matthew 6:30). Unfortunately, God’s children are often rather masters of distrust and beginners in faith. Those who are full of worry or discontentment will find it difficult to live for the Kingdom of God. Paul had anything but an easy life, yet he did not allow discontentment or worry to control him: I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. … I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need (Philippians 4:11-12). He could speak this way, because he believed:  My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. (v. 19).

Let it be your concern to seek the Kingdom of God! And leave it to God to care for you. Is this not a good way of arranging responsibilities?

** Matthew Henry in his commentary on Mt 6:33.