Seek First the Kingdom of God: 4 Ways to Put Him First

We are called to prioritize the kingdom of God above all else, a clear teaching spoken directly by Jesus in the gospel. This instruction encourages us to align our lives with God’s purposes and to trust in His provision as we navigate daily challenges.

Focusing on God’s kingdom means adopting a mindset centered on His righteousness and presence. By consistently reflecting on scripture and seeking God first, we grow in faith that sustains us through difficulties and grounds us in His guidance.

Understanding What It Means to Seek God’s Kingdom First

Putting God’s kingdom first means prioritizing our relationship with Him above every other concern in life. Each day, we face a choice: focus on worldly problems or focus our attention on God and His purpose for our lives. When we choose to seek God’s kingdom first, we actively place our trust in His sovereignty instead of giving in to anxiety and fear.

Anxiety and worry often arise because our minds are fixed on earthly troubles. Yet, the Bible calls us to seek God first, which allows us to redirect our anxious thoughts and focus on faith instead. By intentionally turning to God in prayer, we invite the Holy Spirit to guide and strengthen us.

The story of Peter walking on water shows how easily we can lose focus when we stop seeking God first. Peter’s sinking began the moment he concentrated on the storm rather than on Jesus. Similarly, when we divert our attention to our worries, they quickly overwhelm us.

By living with this mindset, we experience the peace God promises, regardless of external circumstances. Choosing to seek God’s kingdom teaches us how to handle stress, face difficulties, and make choices. When we live this way, our faith deepens, and our connection to God grows stronger.

Where Does the Bible Instruct Us to Seek First the Kingdom of God?

The Bible specifically directs us in Matthew 6:33, part of Jesus’ teaching in the Sermon on the Mount, to “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.” This verse encourages us to make God the focal point of our lives. When we do this, the promise is that our needs will be met.

This verse is found in the New Testament, where Jesus emphasizes trusting God over worrying about material concerns. Just before this verse, in Matthew 6:34, Jesus advises us not to be anxious about tomorrow, urging us to focus on each day as it comes.

These verses together remind us that God oversees the bigger picture, and we should align our priorities with His kingdom rather than worldly things. When we truly commit to God’s kingdom, it reshapes how we see our lives. It shifts us from being consumed by worries to living with confidence that God is actively working for our good.

Ways to Seek First the Kingdom of God

1. Devoting Prayer Time

Consistent and sincere prayer grows our connection with God and keeps Him centered in our lives. It’s not about length or complexity but about speaking honestly and regularly with Him.

We can pray briefly in the morning or throughout the day, sharing our thoughts, concerns, and gratitude. God wants us to bring every detail of our lives before Him, no matter how small it may seem.

Ephesians 6:18 encourages us to “pray always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints.” This helps us keep our focus on God’s kingdom rather than on worldly distractions.

2. Reading Scripture Daily

Reading the Bible daily lets us receive guidance, wisdom, and encouragement directly from God. It helps us understand His promises and align our hearts with His will.

Taking private time to study the Bible deepens our relationship with God beyond what we hear in sermons or teachings. Filling ourselves with God’s Word keeps our thoughts focused and prepares us to navigate life’s challenges.

Since the Bible is described as living and active, it sharpens our spiritual understanding and reveals what is truly important (Hebrews 4:12). Prioritizing Bible reading is a practical step toward seeking God’s Kingdom above all else.

3. Memorizing Bible Verses

Memorizing scripture equips us with God’s truth whenever we need it, especially in moments without access to a Bible. It helps us replace anxious or negative thoughts with Biblical assurances.

We can start by focusing on one verse at a time, writing it down, and placing reminders around our living area. This embeds God’s Word in our hearts, guiding our decisions and actions.

The psalmist said, “Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11). Carrying scripture in our minds gives us strength and peace throughout daily life.

4. Giving Thanks to God

Praising God acknowledges His goodness and faithfulness in every circumstance. Praise can be done in many ways…singing, reading songs aloud, or speaking words of thanks.

Worship invites us to focus on God’s character rather than our problems. Offering him glory renews our perspective and strengthens our trust in His care.

We are encouraged to remember, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever” (Psalm 106:1), praising Him consistently, even during difficulties.