This week I’ve been thinking about Matthew 6:33. So often we adults find comfort in verses like this one without really stopping to think about (or explain to our children) what phrases like “seek first the kingdom of God” actually mean.
We’ve had several opportunities to talk about seeking God’s kingdom this week.
- When talking about the nervousness before starting a new soccer season. Seeking God’s kingdom first means thinking about how this particular situation fits with God’s plan before asking for friends and a winning season. As our Sunday school teacher used to say “I don’t know what God is up to, but it must be something good.” Asking ourselves what God might be up to is part of seeking God’s kingdom first: seeing eternity in each earthly situation.
- When tackling a difficult math lesson together. Seeking God’s kingdom first means asking God for help in math, but also for help looking for that eternal perspective. Then trying to solve the math problem!
- When talking about our next move, and how mom and dad are walking through the process of our decision making. Truth is, the military doesn’t shape our lives; God does. When we acknowledge and talk about God’s hand in our circumstances, we are seeking God first.
- When thinking about how I’m using my time. Reminding myself that activities like being faithful with the laundry and cleaning the kitchen are part of my work for God’s kingdom. Finishing the laundry and cleaning the kitchen because I’ve been listening to myself.
How are you seeking God’s kingdom this week? What Scriptures are changing your life this week?
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Matthew 6:33
Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.1 Peter 5:7
As always, excellent thoughts! Love your practical applications.
Thanks, Mom!
This is a great post! We also use Matthew 6:33 around here! And I love how you said “the military doesn’t shape us, God does” I truly believe that also! And use of my time is also a big one for me… I need to be faithful with the kitchen cleaning and laundry! So much good stuff in this post!
Thanks for stopping by, Natali! I think this passage really is one that sticks in our heads and in our families– simply because if we are truly seeking God first, we’re going to be looking for God in every area of our lives. (And now I’m challenging myself to evaluate whether I really am looking for God in every area of my life. Maybe I’m just stopping at a couple big areas and leaving him out of a bunch of others. That will take some quiet time!) Thanks again for your comments– I’ll pray for you if you’ll pray for me!