CSB
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you.
NIV
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
ESV
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
Memorization Strategies
Try one or two of these strategies to make memorizing easier, especially for dyslexia and learning differences.
Seek God’s kingdom first.
- But seek first the kingdom of God: point upward, then hold one finger in the air to show “first,” and trace a small crown in the air.
- and his righteousness: place both hands over your heart, like wanting a right heart and life.
- and all these things: sweep one hand in a small circle to include everyday needs (food, clothes, etc.).
- will be provided for you: hold your hands out in front of you like you are receiving something from God.
Draw a simple crown at the top of the page labeled “God’s kingdom” and some everyday items near the bottom (a small house, food, clothes, a coin). Draw an arrow going up toward the crown first, then arrows from the crown down toward the needs. Write “Seek first his kingdom… all these things will be provided for you” around the drawing.
Head Summary
Jesus is talking about worry over food, clothes, and daily needs. Instead of chasing those things first, he tells his followers to seek God’s kingdom and God’s righteousness before everything else. That means making God’s rule, God’s ways, and God’s will the top priority. When we do, we can trust that our Father knows what we need and will take care of us.
Heart Prompt
What are the “all these things” you most tend to worry about (money, grades, friends, future, how you look)? If someone watched how you use your time, energy, and attention, what might they say you are “seeking first” right now? How does it change your anxiety to hear Jesus promise that as you seek God’s kingdom first, your Father will provide what you truly need?
Hands Practice
As a family, choose one area this week where you are tempted to seek something else first (success, comfort, people’s approval, stuff). Talk briefly about what it would look like to seek God’s kingdom first in that specific area. Then choose one concrete action—like praying before planning, choosing obedience over convenience, giving instead of grabbing, or putting worship before work—and do it together.
Family Question
What is one way our family could show, in a visible, practical way, that God’s kingdom matters more to us than “all these things”?
Prayer
Father, You know everything we need before we ask. Forgive us for seeking other things first and worrying about “all these things.” Teach our family to seek Your kingdom and Your righteousness above everything else, and help us trust You to provide what we need. Amen.