Bible Verse

Matthew 6:33

Jesus is teaching the Sermon on the Mount, addressing how His followers should live differently from the world, particularly regarding anxiety and priorities.

"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

— Matthew 6:33 (NIV)

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Other Translations

"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."

— ESV

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

— KJV

"Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need."

— NLT

Understanding the Context

Book Context

Matthew 6 contrasts kingdom living with worldly concerns. After teaching about prayer and fasting, Jesus addresses anxiety about material needs (vv. 25-34), culminating in this call to proper priorities.

Historical Background

First-century Palestine under Roman occupation. People faced economic hardship and uncertainty, making worry about food and clothing very real concerns.

Verse-by-Verse Breakdown

"But seek first"

'Seek' (Greek: zeteo) means to actively pursue, desire earnestly, strive for. 'First' (proton) means primary in importance and time. This isn't one priority among many but THE priority that governs all others.

"his kingdom"

God's kingdom is His rule and reign. Seeking it means prioritizing God's will, values, and purposes over personal agendas. It's living under God's authority now and advancing His reign.

"and his righteousness"

'His righteousness' has two meanings: the righteousness God gives (justification) and the righteous living He requires (sanctification). We pursue both—receiving His righteousness through faith and living righteously in obedience.

"and all these things will be given to you as well"

'These things' refers to food, clothing, and material needs (vv. 25-32). This is God's promise: prioritize His kingdom, and He'll provide what you need. Not necessarily what you want, but what you truly need.

Key Themes

Proper prioritiesGod's kingdomDivine provisionTrust versus anxietyRighteousness

Applying This Verse to Your Life

  1. 1

    Evaluate your priorities—is God's kingdom truly first, or do career, comfort, or other things take precedence?

  2. 2

    Make daily decisions by asking 'Does this advance God's kingdom and righteousness?'

  3. 3

    Trust God to provide your needs as you prioritize His purposes rather than anxiously pursuing security.

  4. 4

    Invest time, energy, and resources in kingdom work, not just personal advancement.

  5. 5

    Replace worry about material needs with active pursuit of God's will.

Questions for Reflection

  • What currently competes with God's kingdom for first place in your life?
  • How would your daily schedule change if you truly sought God's kingdom first?
  • What material concerns are you anxiously pursuing instead of trusting God's provision?
  • In what practical ways can you prioritize God's kingdom today?

Related Scripture

Matthew 6:19-21

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth... But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven."

Luke 12:31

"But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well."

Philippians 4:19

"And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus."

Psalm 37:25

"I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread."

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