New Testament
Matthew 6:33
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Instead, make the kingdom of God and his righteousness your first priority, and all these things will be provided for you as well.
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But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
What Matthew 6:33 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of prioritizing God's kingdom and His righteousness above all else. He encourages believers to focus on spiritual matters rather than material concerns. By seeking God's kingdom first, individuals align their lives with His will and purpose. The promise is that when we prioritize our relationship with God and live righteously, our needs will be met. This does not mean that life will be free of challenges, but it assures us that God will provide for us as we trust in Him. The verse serves as a reminder to shift our focus from worldly desires to spiritual growth, encouraging a life centered on faith and obedience to God. Ultimately, it teaches that true fulfillment comes from seeking God first, and everything else will fall into place according to His plan.
How to apply Matthew 6:33 to your life
To apply this verse, start each day by dedicating time to prayer and reading the Bible. Reflect on how your daily decisions align with God's kingdom. Trust that as you prioritize your relationship with God, He will take care of your needs and guide your path.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1–7:29)
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Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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Plain Meaning
Jesus tells His hearers to make God's kingdom and God's righteousness their first priority. If they do that, the everyday things they need — food, drink, clothing — will be provided for them. The promise is not that they must earn these things by seeking God, but that God will supply them when His kingdom comes first.
Read It in Context
Verses 25–32 tell Jesus's hearers not to worry about food, drink, or clothing. He points out that God feeds birds and clothes flowers, and that their heavenly Father already knows they need these things. Verse 33 is the turning point: instead of chasing after those needs, put God first — and the needs will be met.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
How can I practically prioritize God's righteousness in my life?
You can prioritize God's righteousness by making conscious choices that reflect His values in your daily life. This includes practicing honesty, kindness, and integrity in your interactions, serving others, and making decisions that align with biblical teachings. Regularly engaging in prayer and scripture reading can also help you understand and embody God's righteousness, guiding your actions and thoughts.
How does this verse relate to dealing with anxiety about daily needs?
Matthew 6:33 encourages believers to shift their focus from worrying about daily needs to seeking God and His righteousness. By trusting in God's provision and prioritizing spiritual matters, you can find peace and reduce anxiety. This verse serves as a reminder that God is aware of your needs and will provide for you, allowing you to let go of stress and trust in His plan.
Can this verse help me in making life decisions?
Yes, Matthew 6:33 can guide you in making life decisions by encouraging you to consider how your choices align with God's kingdom and righteousness. Before making decisions, reflect on whether they honor God and contribute to your spiritual growth. By prioritizing your relationship with God, you can gain clarity and confidence in your choices, knowing that He will provide for your needs.
What does Matthew 6:33 mean?
Matthew 6:33 centers on prioritizing god. In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of prioritizing God's kingdom and His righteousness above all else.
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