A Place to Start

The economy is affecting all of us these days and we don't know even if it will improve or get worse. It will do one or the other because nothing ever stays the same. Nothing except God that is. I have noticed that there is one scripture that God always brings me back to whenever I need to refocus. It seems to be the starting point of all circumstances in my walk with Christ.

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

I love that so often in scripture we find a command and a promise bundled together. I have also come to realize that it is much easier, and quite common to focus on the promise (God's part) more than the act of obedience (my part). God gives the promise, in part to motivate us into obedience. One thing this scripture is saying is that I need to focus my attention on my part (acting in obedience), and let Him focus on His part (fullfulling His promise).

My part: Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness.
is a requirement in order for...
His part: Provide all that I need.
to be fullfilled.


Here is a copy of a daily devotion from Charles Spurgeon on this scripture:

God First, Then Extras

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (Matthew 6:33)

See how the Bible opens: "In the beginning God." Let your life open in the same way. Seek with your whole soul, first and foremost, the kingdom of God, as the place of your citizenship, and His righteousness as the character of your life. As for the rest, it will come from the Lord Himself without your being anxious concerning it. All that is needful for this life and godliness "shall be added unto you."

What a promise this is! Food, raiment, home, and so forth, God undertakes to add to you while you seek Him. You mind His business, and He will mind yours. If you want paper and string, you get them given in when you buy more important goods; and just so all that we need of earthly things we shall have thrown in with the kingdom. He who is an heir of salvation shall not die of starvation; and he who clothes his soul with the righteousness of God cannot be left of the Lord with a naked body. Away with carking care. Set all your mind upon seeking the Lord.

Covetousness is poverty, and anxiety is misery: trust in God is an estate, and likeness of God is a heavenly inheritance. Lord, I seek Thee; be found of me.