Why These Bible Chapters Where Chosen:‌

- Matthew 6: The Central Command

This chapter provides the theme's title and core teaching. Jesus explicitly commands his followers, "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

- Colossians 3: The Upward Focus

This is the practical application of seeking the kingdom. "Set your hearts on things above, where Christ is... Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."

- Romans 12: The Transformed Mind

To seek the kingdom first requires a new way of thinking. "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." This allows us to live out the priorities of the kingdom.

- Mark 4: The Receptive Heart

The parable of the sower is all about priorities. A heart focused on the kingdom is the "good soil" that receives the word and allows it to bear fruit, unlike the hearts choked by the "worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things."

- Psalm 112: The Portrait of a Kingdom Citizen

This psalm describes the person whose life is ordered by kingdom priorities. They fear the Lord, delight in His commands, and are characterized by generosity, justice, and unwavering trust.

- Ecclesiastes 3: The Kingdom's Perspective on Time

This chapter frees us from the tyranny of our own ambitions by reminding us that God has appointed a time for everything. Seeking His kingdom means submitting to His sovereign timing.

- Titus 2: Kingdom Living in Community

This shows that seeking the kingdom is a corporate activity. It provides a blueprint for how the entire community, in its various roles, can live out godly priorities.

- Ephesians 2: Our Citizenship in the Kingdom

We are "fellow citizens with God’s people." Our new identity, saved by grace, is the basis for our new, kingdom-oriented priorities.

- James 2: The Priorities of Kingdom Love

Seeking the kingdom means obeying the "royal law": "Love your neighbor as yourself." It prohibits showing favoritism and demands that our faith be active in caring for others.

- 1 Timothy 1: The Priority of a Pure Heart

The goal of kingdom instruction isn't empty debate but "love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith."

- John 10: Following the King

Seeking the kingdom means listening to the voice of the Good Shepherd and following Him. He is our highest priority.

- Joshua 1: The Law of the Kingdom

Joshua is commanded to make the Law of God his constant meditation and guide. This is a primary way to seek God's righteousness.

- Psalm 145: Praising the King

A life centered on the kingdom is a life of praise. "I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever."

- Psalm 86: Seeking the King's Way

A model prayer for a kingdom-focused heart: "Teach me your way, LORD, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name."

- 2 Corinthians 1: The Kingdom's "Yes" in Christ

Our priorities are clarified in Jesus, in whom all of God's promises find their "Yes."

- Proverbs 12: The Practical Wisdom of the Kingdom

Simple contrasts that show the practical benefits of living according to the wise priorities of God's kingdom.

- Isaiah 53: The King Who Established the Kingdom

The kingdom we seek was established through the suffering of the Messiah.

- Psalm 46: The Security of the Kingdom

We can seek the kingdom without fear because its King is our refuge and strength. "The LORD Almighty is with us."

- Psalm 28: Trusting the King

Seeking the kingdom requires deep trust in the King as our strength and shield.