Reflection on Mt 6:33
“Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness,
and all these things shall be added to you.”
Jesus tells us that we must seek. Seeking is a painful process. When someone loses something precious, it brings a certain pain, and they search especially in the places where they think they might find it. Jesus says that above all we are to seek the kingdom of God. It is within us like a hidden treasure.
What is the kingdom of God? It is God’s reign and God’s presence in the souls of the baptized. This treasure lies somewhere deep within us, yet we must search for it. Sometimes it can be found quickly.
What does His righteousness mean? It was fulfilled in our Lord Jesus Christ through His redemptive sacrifice for us. He offered a just satisfaction for the sins of humanity – and for all my sins. I find that righteousness beneath Christ’s cross; there, through the act of repentance, my sins are forgiven, and the devil has no right to demand justice – that is, the punishment that sin brings. Jesus completed this righteousness on the cross.
If we seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, everything else – everything truly necessary for our life – will be given to us as well.
PRINCIPLES OF DECISION-MAKING
Objectives from Scripture
God has given particular commandments which can help you make decisions concerning your activities. If a particular course of action is inconsistent with the Bible, then you know it is not His will for you.
- Using the following verses, state in your own words some of God’s objectives for you. God wants you to…
Mt 6:33
Mt 22:37-39
Mt 28:18-20
1Pe 1:15
2Pe 3:18
Ask yourself some questions based on these and similar verses to determine your course of actions:
“Am I putting God’s desires ahead of my own?”
“How does this action relate to my personal involvement in fulfilling Christ’s Great Commission?”
“Will this help me lead a more holy life?”
“Will this course of action increase my personal knowledge of Christ?”
Honestly answering these questions will help you make a decision in accordance with God’s Word.
Question for reflection:
- Using the following verses, develop questions that will help you discern God’s will.
1Cor 6:12
1Cor 6:19-20
1Cor 8:9
1Cor 10:31
Download: Reflection on Mt 6:33
