Day 10: Seeking God’s Kingdom First

Welcome to Day 10 of our 30-day journey. Today, we will focus on the importance of seeking God’s kingdom first in all areas of our lives, including our finances. Jesus teaches us that when we prioritize God’s kingdom, everything else we need will be provided. This principle challenges us to re-evaluate our priorities and ensure that our financial decisions align with God’s will and purpose.

Revelation:
God promises to provide for your needs when you prioritize His kingdom. Seeking His kingdom first means aligning your financial decisions, goals, and lifestyle with God’s values and purposes. It’s about putting God at the center of your financial life and trusting that He will take care of everything else. When we seek God’s kingdom first, we shift our focus from accumulating material wealth to pursuing eternal treasures.

Scripture Reference:
Matthew 6:33 – “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

This verse is a powerful reminder that God’s provision is connected to our priorities. When we seek God’s kingdom and righteousness above all else, He promises to meet our needs. This doesn’t mean we neglect our responsibilities, but it means that our primary focus is on God’s purposes rather than our own material gain.

Direction:
Today, take time to evaluate your financial goals and priorities. Are they aligned with God’s kingdom, or are they primarily focused on personal gain? Consider the ways in which you can reorient your financial decisions to reflect a kingdom-first mindset. This might involve making changes to your budget, giving more generously, or investing in causes that advance God’s work. Ask God to guide you in making these adjustments and to help you trust Him for your provision.

Meditation:
Reflect on the story of the rich young ruler in Matthew 19:16-30. This young man approached Jesus with the question, “What good thing must I do to get eternal life?” Despite his obedience to the commandments, when Jesus asked him to sell his possessions and give to the poor, the young man went away sad because he had great wealth. Jesus then told His disciples that it is difficult for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven, but He also assured them that with God, all things are possible.

This story challenges us to consider what we value most. The rich young ruler was unable to prioritize God’s kingdom over his wealth, and as a result, he missed out on the greater blessings that come from following Jesus. As you meditate on this story, ask yourself: What are the things in your life that might be hindering you from fully seeking God’s kingdom? Are there financial goals, possessions, or desires that have taken precedence over your relationship with God? Consider how you can let go of these things and fully commit to seeking God’s kingdom first.

Prayer:
“Lord, I thank You for the reminder to seek Your kingdom first in every area of my life, including my finances. I confess that I have sometimes placed my own desires and goals above Your will. Help me to reorient my priorities so that my financial decisions reflect a kingdom-first mindset. Teach me to trust in Your provision and to focus on what truly matters—my relationship with You and advancing Your kingdom. May my life be a reflection of Your love, grace, and righteousness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Deeper Reflection:
After your prayer, spend some time reflecting on the specific ways you can seek God’s kingdom first in your financial life. Write down any insights or ideas that come to mind, and make a plan to implement them. This might involve setting new financial goals that prioritize giving, supporting ministry work, or simplifying your lifestyle to focus more on spiritual growth. Consider also how you can involve your family or community in this journey of seeking God’s kingdom first.

Action Step:
As a practical step, identify one area of your financial life where you can make a change to better align with God’s kingdom. This could involve increasing your giving, volunteering your time for a ministry, or reallocating resources to support a cause that advances God’s work. Make a commitment to take this step within the next week, and trust that God will honor your decision to put His kingdom first.

Closing Thought:
Seeking God’s kingdom first is not just a financial decision; it’s a way of life. When you prioritize God’s kingdom, you are aligning your life with His purposes and opening yourself up to His abundant provision. As you continue on this journey, trust that God will provide for your needs and bless you in ways that far exceed material wealth. Remember, the true treasures are those that are stored up in heaven, where they will never fade away.