Beautiful Word Devotional #8

“Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

Matthew 6:33

These aren’t the only comforting yet challenging words Jesus spoke in his Sermon on the Mount. Jesus had more: Don’t go after everything you want. Don’t build your own empire or kingdom. Don’t live in isolation or by your own strength. Don’t run after money or possessions or fame, making them idols.

Instead, Jesus encouraged his followers to seek his kingdom and his righteousness. When our focus is on God and obedience to his commands, as well as loving him and others, he will provide the food and clothing he knows we need. Pursue things, and you get them plus emptiness. Pursue God, and you receive him—and joy, peace, love, and much more—plus all you need in this life. .

Are you tired of chasing after things that don’t satisfy? Or have you fulfilled a long-held dream, yet feel empty? Spend time with God today, telling him of your emptiness, giving him your worries, and asking him to show you how to seek his kingdom first.

Lord, teach me to seek you and your kingdom first, amen.