Luke 12:31
“But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Context
The climax of Jesus' teaching on anxiety, turning from what not to worry about to what should be the disciple's central pursuit -- the kingdom of God.
What Does Luke 12:31 Mean?
Jesus gives the positive cure for anxiety: instead of chasing after life's necessities with worried hearts, seek the kingdom of God first, and trust that God will provide what we need. The word "rather" sets this in contrast to the anxious pursuit of food and clothing that He has just described. The nations of the world chase these things; God's children are called to a different priority.
To "seek the kingdom of God" means to make God's reign, His purposes, and His righteousness the central pursuit of our lives. It is a matter of priority -- of what we put first. When the kingdom holds first place, everything else falls into proper perspective. And to this priority Jesus attaches a promise: "all these things shall be added unto you." The very things people anxiously chase -- daily provision and care -- will be supplied by a faithful Father as we give ourselves to what matters most. This does not mean believers never face want, but it does mean that those who seek God first can trust Him with the rest. The teaching reorders our priorities and frees us from worry at the same time. Rather than letting lesser needs dominate our hearts, we are invited to fix our pursuit on God's kingdom and rest in His provision. Right priorities and quiet trust go hand in hand.
In the Original Language
The verb zeteo means "to seek, strive after, pursue." The kingdom (basileia) is God's reign and rule, set as the disciple's first priority above material concerns.
Cross References
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”
- Matthew 6:33
“Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.”
- Psalms 37:4
“And I have also given thee that which thou hast not asked, both riches, and honour: so that there shall not be any among the kings like unto thee all thy days.”
- 1 Kings 3:13
Application
Make God's kingdom your first pursuit, and trust Him to supply your daily needs as you give yourself to what matters most.