Matthew 6:33 is a widely cited verse in scripture, frequently referred to as a “common” verse due to the casual manner in which it is often read, often without fully grasping its significance. Particularly as Christians, we tend to approach it with the assumption that we are already engaged in the act of seeking. In this context, Christians are not considered seekers; we have already found Him. Regularly attending church, making offerings, refraining from deceit or theft, and various self-righteous thoughts can overwhelm our consciousness. This mindset obscures a deeper truth—a compelling desire to strive further in our faith. It is crucial to remember that the flesh does not prompt this awareness.

What does the term “seek” entail? Common synonyms such as pursue, search for, look for, hunt, quest, aim, and strive suggest an active endeavor to find, attain, or accomplish something. “Pursue” typically denotes the ongoing effort to achieve personal or professional goals. “Strive” implies making significant efforts towards a desired outcome, while “aim” conveys the act of directing one’s focus towards a specific objective.

All the aforementioned terms revolve around active effort, continual engagement, and concentrated focus aimed at reaching a defined goal. This aligns with Jesus’s teachings regarding “the kingdom of heaven.”

In Matthew 13:45-46 (NLT), we read: 

[45] “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for fine pearls. [46] When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it!”

The phrase “discovered it” can be likened to the experience of being born again. However, many individuals stop at this stage without relinquishing all they possess to acquire that which is of utmost value.

According to John 1:12 (NIV):

[12] “Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.”

We exhibit these traits as we pursue what we deem significant—our businesses, careers, marriages, families, education, health, finances, and aspirations. We invest time, energy, and resources in pursuit of these endeavors, often enduring hardship in the process until we attain our objectives.

Achieving a degree, succeeding in business, or attaining a desired physique may require many years of dedicated effort, but we persist in our pursuits. How can this relate to your own “seeking the kingdom”?

As stated in Matthew 6:33 (NLT):

[33] “Seek the kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need.”

It appears that we may be living in a manner contrary to this directive—chasing after everything except the kingdom. How much energy, time, strength, and resources do we invest in the pursuit of God’s kingdom? Does it hold significance for us?

In our casual attempts to seek God, we often engage in other activities, resulting in exhaustion, and we find ourselves retreating to what we consider the “essentials,” such as rest. Even when prompted to engage with matters pertaining to God’s kingdom, we frequently respond with the familiar excuse: “I don’t have time.”

Mark 8:34 (NIV) reminds us:

[34] “Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.'”

The kingdom of God that we are urged to seek is not weak or trivial; it transcends mere physical needs. It is not an accidental discovery, thus emphasizing the necessity of intentional and active pursuit. One must engage daily, striving earnestly to find, embrace, and align with it until a genuine encounter occurs. Devoting your time, effort, energy, comfort, and convenience towards this pursuit will lead to profound transformation.

As stated in Galatians 5:24 (NIV):

[24] “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.”

Furthermore, Jeremiah 29:13 (NIV) affirms:

[13] “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”

Let us reflect on the familiar narrative found in John 20:1-14. 

Mary Magdalene approached the tomb and observed that the stone had been removed from the entrance. She hastened to inform the disciples. Upon relaying this news, Peter and John raced to the tomb, with John arriving first. He stooped to examine the linen strips lying there but did not enter.

Peter, arriving shortly thereafter, entered the tomb where he found the linen strips and the cloth that had encased Jesus’s head. Thus, he had tangible evidence, indicating that the first disciple who later ventured in and witnessed the same was persuaded.

Verse 9 notes their lack of understanding regarding the scriptures that foretold Jesus’s resurrection; they subsequently returned to their prior location. However, Mary lingered at the tomb, weeping. As she cried, she leaned in to look within the tomb again.

Though she had ample reasons to follow the disciples, be it through fear or apprehension, she chose to remain due to her quest for what she sought. When she persisted, she looked again and beheld two angels arrayed in white seated inside. Ultimately, Jesus, whom she sought, manifested to her. Her perseverance was rewarded—she remained steadfast! It is no surprise that she possessed firsthand testimony of the resurrection.

Do you think the narrative was so meticulously detailed merely for storytelling? Is it mere coincidence that Jesus chose to appear to Mary Magdalene first after His resurrection?

While answers to these questions may elude us, it is evident that this narrative illustrates the various degrees and mindsets through which we pursue the Lord.

When one consciously dedicates oneself to seek God in truth and obedience, one will certainly find Him.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, as I commit to seeking Your countenance, grant me the fortitude to pursue wholeheartedly. May Your word guide my steps so that I am not overcome by evil, in Jesus’ name. Amen.