Jesus forever settled where God’s church, the kingdom on earth, should come in one’s list of values: “Seek ye first his kingdom, and his righteousness” (Matthew 6:33). But when and under what circumstances should we do this? Certainly, one is correct in saying, “All of the time and under all circumstances.” However, such an answer is too general to have much meaning for most of us. Let’s ask, and answer, more specifically, “When should we seek the kingdom?”
When we marry. If someone is interested in serving God and going to heaven, it’s only reasonable that he or she should choose a companion who will share this interest. It’s one of the world’s greatest tragedies to see a fine young person who’s dedicated to Christ fall in love with someone who has no interest at all in spiritual matters — and never will. At best, the faithful Christian must shoulder all the spiritual burden of the home and at worst many are drawn away by their companions and lose their soul.
When we choose our work. If the kingdom. is at the top of our list in life, we will never consider any sort of business or employment that would weaken us spiritually or ethically. We furthermore wouldn’t choose an occupation that would take us away from regular worship to God.
When we rear and educate our children. What do we want most for our children? Do we care more about their social and physical needs than their spiritual needs? Is our driving ambition that they must be popular at all cost or faithful Christians? If we’re really seeking the kingdom first, we’ll want our children to have the education that’ll help preserve and strengthen their faith for many years of Christian service that will end in heaven.
When we make big decisions. What’s the main factor governing our big decisions, such as changing jobs, moving, etc.? How much money it means, whether we’ll like the climate, what the living conditions are, etc., must all be considered. But, for the Christian, the important question is, “Will this enable me to serve !he Lord more or will it hinder me?” In any big decision, we should pray, “Your will be done” (Matthew 26:42).
When we have financial success. If we lay up treasure only on earth, we’re foolish. If the kingdom isn’t first financially (2 Corinthians 9:7), it’s not first.
When we choose our recreation or entertainment. We don’t want to reflect the “will of the Gentiles” (1 Peter 4:3). If our recreation or entertainment includes bad language, immodest dress, or sensuality, then we’d better stay away.
Seeking the kingdom is more than just a catchphrase. It’s got serious ramifications for the way you live. We’ve quickly considered six in this space, and there’s surely more that can apply. Always think about God!
Adapted from Dub McClish
