Seek His Kingdom

SEEK HIS KINGDOM

a prayer to open

Open my eyes and help me to see you.

Open my heart and help me to know you.

Jesus, my Lord and my God.

Jesus said, “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food to eat or enough clothes to wear. For life is more than food, and your body more than clothing. Look at the ravens. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than any birds! Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? And if worry can’t accomplish a little thing like that, what’s the use of worrying over bigger things?

“Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?

“And don’t be concerned about what to eat and what to drink. Don’t worry about such things. These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need.

“So don’t be afraid. . . . For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.

“Sell your possessions and give to those in need. This will store up treasure for you in heaven! And the purses of heaven never get old or develop holes. Your treasure will be safe; no thief can steal it and no moth can destroy it. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.”

“Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?” (verse 25). If only we could fully live into this truth! So many of us can be overcome by fear. We worry about what will happen many steps out into the future. And all the while, God is whispering, Be present. Notice me where you are. We spend so much time reflecting on past mistakes and daydreaming about potential future problems. Jesus tells us to keep our eyes focused on God’s Kingdom and know that he will provide us with all we need.

• In this passage, what promises did Jesus make about God’s care for you?
• What do you worry about most? How might you release this worry into God’s hands this week through prayer and by speaking his promises in this passage to yourself?
• What does today’s passage reveal to you about Jesus?

O Father, you are the maker of all things, yet you know even my smallest need and most hidden concern. You know the time I spend spinning with worry. Would you, by your grace, build my trust and allow me to see a glimpse of your Kingdom in every moment, every face, every joy, and every trial? Please help me hold on to the things that last, the things of your Kingdom, and let go of all things that fade and fail and rot. Amen.