Matthew 6:33

Matthew 6:33

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

King James Version (KJV)

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Context

From the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus contrasts anxious striving after material things with the trust of a child who knows the Father provides.

What Does Matthew 6:33 Mean?

In one sentence: make God's reign and His righteousness your first priority, and trust Him to take care of your daily needs. Jesus has just told worried listeners not to be consumed with food, drink, and clothing the way the world is.

The promise is not that seeking God makes you rich, but that your Father knows what you need and provides as you pursue Him first. "First" is about order -- not God among many priorities, but God above them all, with everything else falling into place behind Him.

In the Original Language

The Greek "zeteo" (seek) is a continual striving, not a one-time choice. "Basileia" (kingdom) is God's reign and rule. "Dikaiosyne" (righteousness) is being and doing right before God.

Application

Order your day around God first -- His word, His will, His people -- and trust Him with the practical needs that tend to dominate your worries.

Keep Studying Matthew 6

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