How can we seek first His righteousness (Matthew 6:33)?

In Matthew 6:19–34, part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, our Savior focuses on the human tendency to spend our lives pursuing wealth, health, and security. We worry about how we will provide for our earthly needs, such as what we will eat and wear. Our priorities become divided and misdirected. But Jesus calls His followers to walk a different path, one that is free from anxiety and preoccupation with the cares of this life: “But seek first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you” (Matthew 6:33, CSB).

How can we truly seek first His kingdom and His righteousness in a world brimming with distractions, temptations, and competing priorities? The starting place is to give precedence to our relationship with God and our obedience to Him. Above all else, we pursue living in a way that is pleasing to God and consistent with His righteous standards and character.

What is His righteousness? At its core, righteousness for the believer refers to being in right standing with God. It is not something achieved through good works but a gift received through faith: “This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe” (Romans 3:22). We can claim no righteousness of our own (Isaiah 64:6; Romans 3:10–12, 23; Philippians 3:9; Titus 3:5). His righteousness comes to us as a loving, merciful gift by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:4–10). So, first, we must receive God’s gift of salvation in Jesus Christ.

Then, to continue seeking first His righteousness, we must let God’s Spirit transform our hearts and minds so that our will aligns with God’s will and our actions begin to reflect His holiness (see Ezekiel 36:26–27; Romans 12:2; 2 Corinthians 3:18). It’s not about external obedience or legal observance of the law, but an internal posture of submission and dependence on the Lord. It means we look for every opportunity to let God rule and reign over our lives, surrendering our ambitions, desires, and plans to Him.

By urging us to seek first His righteousness, Jesus invites us to trust in God’s providence and provision. When we focus on His kingdom and righteousness, we shift our perspective from temporal concerns to eternal truths, finding peace and purpose in God’s plan. Jesus assures us that, when we place complete trust in God, He will provide for our needs. He is not offering a prosperity gospel promise but reminding us that God alone is our provider. He knows our needs and is faithful to care for us when we walk in His will.

Practically speaking, how can we seek first His righteousness?

Cultivate a Life of Prayer

Prayer is essential to seeking God’s kingdom and His righteousness (Jeremiah 29:12–13; Philippians 4:6–7). Through prayer, we connect with God, seek His guidance, and reorient our hearts with His desires. As we dedicate time each day to spend with Him, not only making requests but also listening to His voice, we grow closer to Him and more like Jesus.

Study and Meditate on Scripture

God’s Word is a lamp to our feet and a guiding light to our path (see Psalm 119:105). By immersing ourselves in the Bible, we come to understand His character, His promises, and His expectations. Regular study, meditation, and internalization of Scripture will equip us to live righteously and resist the temptations of the world.

Practice Obedience

The Bible says that faith without works is dead (see Matthew 7:21–23; Titus 3:8; James 1:27; 2:14–26). Seeking His righteousness requires us to act on what we learn from God’s Word. We choose to reflect His love and truth, even when it is difficult or countercultural.

Serve Others

Jesus exemplified servanthood, washing His disciples’ feet and sacrificing Himself for humanity. We seek first His righteousness by serving others selflessly, demonstrating Christ’s love through our actions, helping those in need, and showing kindness in tangible ways.

Participate in the Community of Faith

Fellowship with other believers is crucial. It strengthens our faith and keeps us accountable. We come together in community to foster spiritual growth, offer support during challenging times, and provide opportunities for mutual care, love, and encouragement (see Acts 2:42; Ephesians 4:15–16; Hebrews 10:24–25).

Seeking first His righteousness is the believer’s lifelong pursuit. It is a daily decision to prioritize our relationship with the Lord, trusting that He has good plans for us that are far better than anything we could imagine (see Isaiah 55:8–9; Romans 8:28; 1 Corinthians 2:9). As we elevate our relationship with God above all else, we find not only His blessings of peace, purpose, and provision but also the abundant joy of dwelling in His presence (see Psalm 23).