A Kingdom-First Mindset

Welcome to Day 2 of our 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting! Yesterday, we explored the meaning of the Kingdom of God. Today, we take it a step further by diving into one of Jesus’ key teachings: “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)

This verse is part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, where He teaches about priorities and trust. He invites us to shift our focus from worldly concerns to Kingdom values, promising that when we put God first, everything else will fall into place. But what does it mean to seek first the Kingdom, and how can we live it out practically?

What Does It Mean to Seek First the Kingdom?

Prioritising God’s Rule in Our Lives

To seek first the Kingdom means to prioritise God’s rule and will above all else. It’s not just a matter of religious activity but a heart posture that aligns every part of our lives—our decisions, relationships, work, and ambitions—with God’s purposes.

It involves:

1. Surrendering Control: Acknowledging that God is King and yielding our plans to His will.

2. Pursuing Righteousness: Living in a way that reflects God’s character and standards.

3. Trusting God’s Provision: Letting go of worry and trusting that God will meet our needs as we focus on His Kingdom.

In Matthew 6, Jesus contrasts the worries of the world with the peace of seeking God’s Kingdom. The world often prioritises material success, security, and personal gratification. But Kingdom living focuses on eternal values—loving God, serving others, and advancing His purposes.

When we shift our focus from worldly concerns to God’s Kingdom, our perspective changes. Anxiety decreases because we trust God to take care of our needs, and we find deeper fulfilment in living for something greater than ourselves.

How to Seek First the Kingdom

1. Develop a Kingdom Perspective

Seeking first the Kingdom begins with renewing our minds. Romans 12:2 urges us to “be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Spend time in Scripture and prayer, asking God to reveal His priorities for your life.

Practical Steps:

• Meditate on verses about God’s Kingdom, like Matthew 6:10 (“Your kingdom come, Your will be done.”).

• Reflect on areas where your priorities may not align with God’s will.

2. Trust God with Your Needs

Jesus assures us in Matthew 6:31–32: “So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’... your heavenly Father knows that you need them.”

Seeking God’s Kingdom requires releasing our worries and trusting that He will provide. It doesn’t mean neglecting responsibilities but recognising that God is ultimately our provider.

Practical Steps:

• Surrender your worries to God in prayer.

• Write down areas where you’re struggling to trust God, and commit them to Him.

3. Make Kingdom Living Your Lifestyle

Seeking first the Kingdom is not a one-time decision; it’s a daily commitment to live out Kingdom values. This includes serving others, sharing the Gospel, and showing love, humility, and generosity in every aspect of life.

Practical Steps:

• Look for opportunities to serve others today.

• Be intentional about demonstrating Kingdom values in your interactions.

Why Seek First the Kingdom?

1. It Brings Purpose

Living for God’s Kingdom gives your life eternal significance. You’re no longer just working, raising a family, or pursuing goals for temporary satisfaction; you’re doing it all as part of God’s greater plan.

2. It Brings Peace

When we trust God to meet our needs, we experience a peace that the world cannot offer. Philippians 4:6–7 reminds us: “Do not be anxious about anything… And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

3. It Brings God’s Provision

Jesus promises that when we seek His Kingdom first, “all these things will be given to you as well.” God knows what we need and delights in providing for His children (Matthew 7:11).

Seeking first the Kingdom of God is both a challenge and a blessing. It requires us to let go of control and trust God with every aspect of our lives. But in return, we gain peace, purpose, and the assurance of God’s provision.

As you continue this journey of prayer and fasting, ask God to show you what it means to put His Kingdom first. Let this become not just a practice for 21 days but a lifestyle that transforms your heart and impacts the world around you.

Prayer for Today:
Father, thank You for inviting me to seek first Your Kingdom. Help me to prioritise Your will above my own and trust You with my needs. Align my heart with Your purposes and guide me to live a life that reflects Your Kingdom values. In Jesus’ name, Amen.