Chapter 13—Our Top Priority
Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these
things shall be added unto you.
Matthew 6:33
.
The people who listened to the words of Christ were still anxiously
watching for some announcement of the earthly kingdom. While Jesus was
opening to them the treasures of heaven, the question uppermost in many
minds was, How will a connection with Him advance our prospects in the
world? Jesus shows that in making the things of the world their supreme
anxiety they were like the heathen nations about them....
“All these things,” said Jesus, “do the nations of the world seek after”
(
Luke 12:30
).... I have come to open to you the kingdom of love and
righteousness and peace. Open your hearts to receive this kingdom, and
make its service your highest interest. Though it is a spiritual kingdom, fear
not that your needs for this life will be uncared for....
Jesus does not release us from the necessity of effort, but He teaches that
we are to make Him first and last and best in everything. We are to engage
in no business, follow no pursuit, seek no pleasure, that would hinder the
outworking of His righteousness in our character and life. Whatever we do
is to be done heartily, as unto the Lord.
Jesus, while He dwelt on earth, dignified life in all its details by keeping
before men the glory of God, and by subordinating everything to the will of
His Father. If we follow His example, His assurance to us is that all things
needful in this life “shall be added.” Poverty or wealth, sickness or health,
simplicity or wisdom—all are provided for in the promise of His grace.
Difficulties will be powerless to hinder him who is determined to seek
first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.... Looking to Jesus,... the
believer will willingly brave contempt and derision. And help and grace
sufficient for every circumstance are promised by Him whose word is truth.
His everlasting arms encircle the soul that turns to Him for aid. In His care
we may rest safely, saying, “What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee”
(
Psalm 56:3
).
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