Read Matthew 6:33.

On a recent trip to visit a group of ministry partners, I sensed that the Father wanted me to start our time together by teaching about His Kingdom.

Understanding Seeking His Kingdom

Matthew 6:33 is a very famous New Testament passage that clearly exhorts us to seek the Kingdom above all else. As I wrestled with this text, my attention was drawn to the background of this exhortation that consists of two incredibly simple, even routine, things—worries about food and clothing

I would expect Matthew to focus on something seemingly more major—like spiritual warfare or illness—but then I realized that food and clothing could easily steal our zeal for the Kingdom because they are daily needs. When they’re not met, it’s easy to lose sight of God and become spiritually dry.

Called Daily to Seek Christ

After a time of meditation, God allowed me to see that this happens when we’re no longer growing in our faith. Yet we are called to daily seek Christ and His Kingdom … nullifying any previous ministry successes and starting each day as though we are spiritually bankrupt. This is how we will abide in Him and bear fruit.

Father, without You we are spiritually bankrupt. Help us remember to daily seek Your Kingdom and abide in You above all else. In doing so, use us to bear fruit for Your glory. Amen.

-written by a national partner in Central Asia