Sept Bible study: Week 1 "GOD FIRST: Seeking His Kingdom"

Hey Everyone,

We're so excited to start a new series this month called "GOD FIRST." We'll be sharing what it means to truly prioritize God by putting Him first in all areas of our lives. This isn't just about one specific decision, but a journey of seeking His will above our own on a daily basis.

Scripture Focus:

Matthew 6:33 (NIV) - "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."  

 

Study Focus

Our theme for this week is Seeking His Kingdom and His Righteousness. We'll look at the powerful instruction from Jesus to make His kingdom our primary goal. This is the foundation for everything that follows.

Breaking Down the Verse:

1."But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness," (Matthew 6:33)

This is the core instruction. To "seek first" means to prioritize- like placing something important at the very top of your list. You may wonder what His "kingdom" represents. It isn't just a place in heaven or here on earth; it's actually the reign and rule of God’s authority and leadership in our lives. Some people may struggle with leadership. But even the greatest leaders have someone who they look up to and trust for advice and wisdom. So as we continue to learn, live our lives, and take new steps daily, the greatest influence and leader we could ever want in this world is Jesus. In this scripture, Jesus himself is literally telling us to focus on God’s kingdom- His ways, His rule, His purpose and His leadership for our lives. God’s kingdom is what we seek after in order to address our worries and priorities. Jesus reminds us in the sermon on the mount that if God provides for the birds and flowers, and He loves us even more, we don’t need to live in fear or anxiety. We can put all of our trust in God. Seeking His kingdom is active, not passive. It’s also about sharing the word of God, and doing the work that honors Him. So in all, when we focus on God first, He will take care of all our needs. And remember, you're not just seeking God for yourself, but you're also working to shine the light on His kingdom for others to see.

 2. "His righteousness"– it refers to His way of doing things—His character, His justice, and His moral purity. His righteousness is about making His will and His ways your number one priority in every choice and action. It means striving to live a life that pleases God. It’s not about being perfect, but about wanting to live in alignment with His word. Righteousness can sometimes carry a confusing context with believers, but it’s actually very simple and powerful. It comes from the greek word, “dikaisoyne", pronounced (dik-eye-ah-soo-nay) and it essentially means being in right standing with God- both in our inner and outward actions. The main focus on righteousness begins with our relationship with God, because aligning our thoughts, words and actions with God will then show up outwardly. As we share the love of Jesus, I am reminded of His words that said, “Peace be still”.  I love to utilize the righteousness of God by allowing Him to speak for me.  Overall Matthew 6:33 teaches us to stop worrying, start trusting, and live with God as the center of our lives. When we focus on His Kingdom and on His way of living, God promises to meet our needs and carry our burdens. Remember the song, “Let Jesus lead you, let Jesus lead you, let Jesus lead you all the way. All the way from earth to heaven, let Jesus lead you all the way.

Question for Reflection:

Would you say that you are  "seeking God’s Kingdom first" in every area of your life? Would you say that you are living a righteous life?

Application for the Week:

This week, let's practice putting God first. Before you start your day, ask Him to guide your steps. When faced with a decision, big or small, pause and ask, "How does this align with God’s kingdom?" Let's commit to seeking His will in prayer and in His Word.

What's Next?

Next week, we'll explore what it means to truly trust that when we put God first, He will take care of "all these things" in our lives. Until then, may you find joy and clarity in seeking Him first.

Pray this prayer with me.

Heavenly Father, help me to seek your Kingdom and your Righteousness above everything else in my life. Teach me to trust you fully, knowing that you will provide for all my needs as I put you first. Please guide my heart, my mind, my tongue and my steps. Allow me to be still and let you fight my battles, so that my life brings glory to you each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Blessings,

The Trust The King Team

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