Matthew 7:33 is about the importance of seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness above all worldly concerns, trusting that all other necessary things will be added unto us.
33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
Setting the Scene for Matthew 7:33
In Matthew chapter 7, Jesus is delivering the Sermon on the Mount to a large crowd gathered on a mountainside near the Sea of Galilee. The scene is serene, with the gentle breeze carrying the sound of Jesus’ voice as he imparts his teachings. The crowd is a mix of people from various walks of life, including fishermen, farmers, merchants, and families who have come to hear the words of this renowned teacher.
Among the crowd are Jesus’ disciples, who have been following him closely and learning from his wisdom and miracles. They are seated near Jesus, absorbing his every word and pondering the profound truths he is sharing with them. The atmosphere is one of reverence and anticipation, as Jesus speaks with authority and compassion, challenging the traditional beliefs and practices of the time.
As Jesus reaches the climax of his sermon, he uses the analogy of a builder who wisely builds his house on a rock, symbolizing a strong foundation in faith and obedience to God’s word. The crowd listens intently, their hearts stirred by the powerful message of building their lives on the solid rock of God’s truth. The scene is a pivotal moment in Jesus’ ministry, as he lays the foundation for his followers to live a life of faith, love, and righteousness.
What is Matthew 7:33 about?
This verse encourages us to prioritize seeking God’s kingdom and righteousness above all else. It reminds us of the importance of putting God first in our lives and aligning our actions with His will. We strive to live in accordance with God’s teachings and values by seeking His kingdom, which ultimately leads to a fulfilling and purposeful life.
When we make the conscious decision to seek God above everything else, we are promised that all our other needs and desires will be taken care of. This verse reminds us of the steadfast love and provision of God, assuring us that He will provide for us when we put our trust in Him. Focusing on God’s kingdom and righteousness reminds us not to be consumed by worldly worries and material possessions, but to trust in God’s faithfulness and provision.
So, as we navigate the uncertainties of life, let us remember to prioritize seeking God first and trust that He will fulfill all our needs and desires. We are promised that everything else will fall into place according to His perfect plan by seeking His kingdom and righteousness diligently.
Understanding what Matthew 7:33 really means
It’s essential to delve into the depths of biblical verses to extract their true meaning and relevance to our lives. In Matthew 6:33, Jesus instructs his followers to “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness.” This directive underscores the importance of placing God’s will and principles above all other pursuits. By prioritizing spiritual growth and aligning our lives with God’s ways, we demonstrate our commitment to His kingdom.
The promise that follows, “All these things will be given to you as well,” assures believers that when they prioritize God’s kingdom, their material needs will be met. This assurance reflects God’s faithfulness and provision for those who trust in Him. It serves as a reminder that God is aware of our needs and will care for us as we seek Him first.
In Philippians 4:19, we find a similar promise of God’s provision: “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” This verse reinforces the idea that God is a provider who meets the needs of His people. Proverbs 3:5-6 further emphasizes the importance of trusting in the Lord and seeking His guidance in all aspects of life to find direction and fulfillment.
The relevance of Matthew 6:33 in today’s world is profound. In a society consumed by materialism and anxiety about the future, this verse offers a counter-cultural perspective. It encourages individuals to prioritize their spiritual well-being and trust in God’s provision rather than being consumed by worries about material needs. For instance, a young professional stressed about career advancement and financial stability may find peace and direction by focusing on their relationship with God, leading to unexpected provision and fulfillment.
When we break down the phrases in Matthew 6:33, we uncover deeper meanings. “Seek first” implies an intentional pursuit of God’s kingdom, emphasizing its priority above all else. “His kingdom and his righteousness” call us to live according to God’s will and uphold moral and spiritual integrity in all aspects of life. “All these things” encompass our basic needs, indicating that God is attentive to our necessities and will provide for them as we prioritize Him.
Ultimately, Matthew 6:33 serves as a powerful reminder for believers to prioritize their spiritual lives and trust in God’s provision. By focusing on God’s kingdom and righteousness, we can find peace and assurance in a world often filled with worry and material concerns. This verse challenges us to reevaluate our priorities and place our trust in the faithful provider who cares for His children.
What is the true source of your treasures?
The true source of our treasures lies in the priorities that we set in our lives. When we seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, all these things will be added to us. This means putting God and His will above all else, trusting in Him to provide for our needs and desires. We store up treasures in heaven that will never fade or be taken away by making God the center of our lives and aligning our priorities with His.
Our earthly possessions and accomplishments may bring temporary satisfaction, but true and lasting treasure is found in our relationship with God. The things of this world are passing away, but the treasures we lay up in heaven are eternal. It is in seeking after spiritual wealth and investing in the kingdom of God that we store up treasures that have eternal significance and value. Trusting in God’s provision and seeking His kingdom above all else will lead us to the true source of treasures that bring fulfillment and joy beyond measure.
Application
Imagine balancing your work, family, and personal life like spinning plates. Keeping everything up and running starts with a strong foundation. Matthew 7:33 tells us the key: put seeking God’s kingdom and righteousness at the center of it all. When you make this your priority, everything else falls into place more naturally. Are you ready to realign your life’s priorities and make God’s will your guiding principle?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.