First Things First

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow; for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.

Matthew 6:33,34

This instruction is most evident when Jesus tells not only His disciples but the saints of today, “but seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33).

Note in this text the specific detailed order given for us to realize the blessings of God. First, our attention and focus must be placed upon God. The emphasis must be placed on God and what He requires. It is not what we desire and want, but what He desires. He must be worshiped for who He is — high lifted up and exalted. “As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God” (Psalm 42:1).

Secondly, everything — soul, mind and body, must be submitted to the rule and authority of God, His kingdom. The Almighty God honors and responds to righteousness and purity of the heart and spirit. “Who shall abide in thy tabernacle? “Who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh truth in his heart” (Psalm 15:1-2).

Lastly, there is a promise attached to the instructions, “and all these things shall be added”. If the instructions are followed as they are given, our needs and wants will be given without asking. God says to His people emphatically, “take care of Me first and I will take care of you”.

After the will of God is done, there is one trick of the enemy to be wary of, worry. Worry is senseless, godless, and useless. It is contrary to the nature, revelation and divine providence of God. “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God” (Philippians 4:6). If the blessings of God are not immediately realized, wait on God who cannot lie. Satisfaction should be derived from having followed the command of the Lord — first things first.