“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matt. 6:33)
Expanded Passage: Matthew 6:19-34
Which came first: the chicken or the egg? This question of circular logic has made for some interesting conversations since it was first posed. Some people stand firmly in their “begotten” belief. Others start out convinced of their original answer, only to change their minds as their logical argument unfolds.
There’s a similar question—not circular in nature—we need to ask ourselves from time to time: “Who comes first: God or me?” As Christians we know the answer should be God, but it may not always be true in our day-to-day lives.
Life is filled with distractions. From the time we wake up until we lay our heads on our pillows at night, a constant stream of noise fills our senses. This noise sends messages designed to shape our desires, promising to fill our needs, calling us to serve another master, and often feeding our worries and fears. If we fail to guard against such distractions, we eventually find ourselves living into a me-first existence.
Jesus calls his disciples to a greater level of faith. All the me-first noise and lifestyle will never satisfy us. God, his kingdom, and his righteousness must take first place. When that happens, Jesus promises all else will fall into place and be given to us—our needs will be met.
It's time to make a choice. Will you put God first?
Determine daily to put God’s kingdom and righteousness first.
Angela Alvarado is the assistant editor for Communication and Administration of The Wesleyan Church and a graduate of Wesley Seminary, (IN).
© 2023 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
