Aligning with God's Kingdom: A Journey of Faith
Summary
The call is to shift our posture from being shaped by the priorities of earthly kingdoms to being wholly aligned with the priorities of the Kingdom of God. This is not a one-time decision, but a continual, daily seeking—a craving, a striving, a relentless pursuit of God’s presence, His will, and His resources. The promise is not limited to the basic necessities of life; rather, it is an invitation to access all that God has—His wisdom, mercy, love, power, and authority. The abundance of the Kingdom is not earned by our perfection or effort, but is given because of who God is and His extravagant generosity.
When we seek the Kingdom first, we are not just seeking provision for ourselves, but resources to fulfill God’s purposes in and through us. The provision is for His mission, and as we align ourselves with His heart, He ensures that we lack nothing needed for life and godliness. This posture frees us from anxiety and enables us to be generous, knowing that God’s supply is inexhaustible and continually replenished.
Looking at Abraham’s story, we see the importance of standing on God’s promises, even when circumstances seem to challenge them. Abraham’s confidence in God’s word allowed him to act with generosity and faith, trusting that God’s provision would not be limited by human choices or apparent setbacks. Sometimes, however, receiving what God has promised requires contending—prayer, fasting, and spiritual perseverance—because there is real opposition that seeks to delay or distract us from our inheritance. Yet, God’s faithfulness ensures that, in due time, the resources arrive, often in ways that defy natural explanation.
Finally, faith must inform our vision. Like Isaac sowing in a time of famine, we are called to act with expectation, making room for a harvest that only God can bring. We must not limit our sowing to what seems reasonable or possible, but instead, sow for the hundredfold, trusting that God’s abundance far exceeds our imagination. Maintaining these postures—standing on the promise, contending for resources, and letting faith shape our vision—enables us to draw on the full resources of the Kingdom and live out our calling with confidence and generosity.
Key Takeaways
- Continual Seeking, Not a One-Time Event
Seeking the Kingdom is not a single act but a lifelong pursuit. It involves a deep craving and a daily, intentional alignment of our hearts with God’s priorities, not just a casual or occasional search. This ongoing seeking is what positions us to receive all that God desires to give, far beyond what we could achieve on our own. [04:49]
- The Promise of “All”—Not Just the Basics
God’s promise is not limited to food, drink, or clothing; the word “all” in Matthew 6:33 encompasses every resource needed for life and godliness. This includes wisdom, discernment, love, power, and authority—everything required to fulfill His purposes. We are invited to live from a place of abundance, not scarcity, because God’s provision is as limitless as His character. [09:00]
- Standing on God’s Promises Transforms Our Posture
Abraham’s story shows that when we truly believe God’s promises, we are freed from anxiety and competition. We can act with generosity and faith, knowing that God’s provision is not dependent on circumstances or the choices of others. Our confidence rests in the unchanging faithfulness of God, who always delivers on His word, even if the fulfillment is delayed or looks different than we expect. [19:32]
- Contending for Kingdom Resources Is Part of the Journey
Receiving God’s provision sometimes requires spiritual perseverance—prayer, fasting, and standing firm against opposition. There are times when the enemy seeks to delay or distract us from our inheritance, but contending deepens our faith and clarifies our dependence on God. These “now I am here” moments remind us that God’s timing and intervention are perfect, and that nothing can ultimately block what He has promised. [28:49]
- Faith-Informed Vision Makes Room for God’s Abundance
Like Isaac sowing in famine, we are called to act with a vision shaped by faith, not by present limitations. This means making space for a harvest that only God can bring, sowing for the hundredfold rather than settling for the ordinary. When faith determines our vision, we partner with God’s limitless possibilities and position ourselves to receive and steward His extravagant provision. [33:30]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:44] - Understanding the Context of Matthew 6:33
[02:15] - Shifting from Earthly to Kingdom Priorities
[03:30] - The Challenge of Translation and the Deeper Meaning of “Seek”
[04:49] - Seeking as a Continual, Craving Pursuit
[09:00] - The True Scope of “All These Things”
[11:05] - Kingdom Mentality and Generosity
[12:45] - God’s Ongoing, Abundant Provision
[14:11] - The Two-Part Promise: Seek and Receive
[15:21] - Three Postures for Drawing on Kingdom Resources
[16:47] - Abraham and the Promise of Provision
[19:32] - Standing on God’s Promises Despite Challenges
[22:36] - Contending for Resources: A Testimony
[25:57] - The Necessity and Power of Contending
[28:49] - Spiritual Opposition and “Now I Am Here” Moments
[30:53] - Faith-Informed Vision: Isaac’s Hundredfold Harvest
[33:30] - Sowing for the Hundredfold
[34:35] - Maintaining Posture and Vision for Kingdom Resources
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Drawing on Kingdom Resources
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### Bible Reading
- Matthew 6:33
"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
- Genesis 13:5-17
(The story of Abraham and Lot, where Abraham stands on God’s promise and acts with generosity.)
- Genesis 26:12-14
(Isaac sows in a time of famine and reaps a hundredfold because of God’s blessing.)
---
### Observation Questions
1. In Matthew 6:33, what does Jesus say will happen when we seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness?
2. According to Genesis 13, how does Abraham respond when there is conflict over land with Lot? What does this show about his trust in God’s promise?
3. In Genesis 26, what is surprising about Isaac’s harvest, and what were the conditions when he sowed his seed?
4. The sermon describes “seeking” as more than a one-time event. What words or phrases did the speaker use to describe what it means to seek the kingdom? [[04:49]]
---
### Interpretation Questions
1. The sermon says that “all these things” in Matthew 6:33 means more than just food and clothing. What does it mean for God to promise “all” and not just the basics? How might this change someone’s view of God’s provision? [[09:00]]
2. Abraham let Lot choose first, even though it wasn’t required. What does this reveal about Abraham’s confidence in God’s promises, and how might this posture free someone from anxiety or competition? [[19:32]]
3. The speaker talks about “contending” for kingdom resources through prayer and perseverance. Why might God allow us to go through times where we have to contend, rather than just giving us what we need immediately? [[25:57]]
4. Isaac sowed for a hundredfold harvest during a famine. What does it look like to let faith, rather than circumstances, shape our vision and actions? [[33:30]]
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon describes seeking the kingdom as a daily, craving pursuit, not a one-time event. What is one practical way you could intentionally seek God’s kingdom first in your daily routine this week? [[04:49]]
2. The promise of “all” includes wisdom, love, power, and more. Is there a specific area of your life where you need to trust God for more than just the basics? How can you ask God for that this week? [[09:00]]
3. Abraham acted with generosity because he trusted God’s promise. Is there a situation in your life where you could choose generosity or faith over anxiety or competition? What would it look like to do that? [[19:32]]
4. The sermon shared a story about contending for resources through prayer and even fasting. Is there something you are waiting on God for right now? What would it look like for you to “contend” for it in prayer this week? [[25:57]]
5. The speaker encouraged sowing for a hundredfold, not just for what seems reasonable. Is there an area where you have been limiting your expectations of what God can do? How could you take a step of faith to “make room” for God’s abundance? [[33:30]]
6. The sermon says that God’s provision is not earned by our perfection. Are there ways you have felt you needed to “earn” God’s help? How does it change your approach to know that God gives because of who He is? [[12:45]]
7. The speaker mentioned that sometimes there is spiritual opposition that delays God’s provision. Have you experienced a “now I am here” moment where God’s answer finally came? How did that affect your faith? [[28:49]]
---
Devotional
Day 1: Seek the Kingdom Continually, Not as a One-Time Event
Seeking the kingdom of God is not a single moment or a box to check, but a lifelong, ongoing pursuit that shapes every aspect of your life. Jesus calls us to crave, desire, and strive after the kingdom with a determination that goes beyond a fleeting search; it is a posture of the heart that keeps returning, keeps asking, keeps knocking, and never settles for less than all God has for us. This continual seeking is what aligns us with God’s priorities and opens us to the fullness of His provision, wisdom, and love. When you make seeking the kingdom your daily aim, you find your deepest needs met and your life transformed by His presence. [09:00]
Matthew 6:33 (ESV)
"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."
Reflection: What is one practical way you can intentionally seek God’s kingdom today, making it your top priority in the midst of your daily routines?
Day 2: God’s Provision Is Abundant and All-Encompassing
God’s promise is not limited to meeting your basic needs; He offers you everything you require for life and godliness—mercy, love, power, authority, discernment, and wisdom. When you seek His kingdom, you are invited to draw on the limitless resources of a generous and extravagant God who delights in giving more than you can ask or imagine. This provision is not earned by your perfection or effort, but is a gift that flows from His character and faithfulness, given so you can serve His purposes and bless others without fear of lack. [12:45]
2 Peter 1:3 (ESV)
"His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence."
Reflection: Where in your life do you feel lack or limitation, and how can you trust God to provide abundantly in that area as you seek His kingdom?
Day 3: Stand on God’s Promises, Not on Circumstances
Like Abraham, you are called to stand on the promises God has spoken over your life, even when circumstances seem uncertain or when others appear to have the advantage. God’s faithfulness is not dependent on your situation or on what others choose; His promises are sure, and He will provide all that is needed to fulfill His purposes in and through you. When you let God’s word define your reality, you can walk in peace and confidence, knowing that your inheritance is secure and that His provision will always meet you where you are. [19:32]
Genesis 13:14-17 (ESV)
"The Lord said to Abram, after Lot had separated from him, 'Lift up your eyes and look from the place where you are, northward and southward and eastward and westward, for all the land that you see I will give to you and to your offspring forever. I will make your offspring as the dust of the earth, so that if one can count the dust of the earth, your offspring also can be counted. Arise, walk through the length and the breadth of the land, for I will give it to you.'"
Reflection: What is one promise from God that you need to stand on today, regardless of what your circumstances look like?
Day 4: Contend in Faith for Kingdom Resources
Receiving God’s provision sometimes requires active contending—prayer, fasting, and spiritual perseverance—especially when obstacles or delays arise. There are times when the enemy will try to distract, delay, or rob you of what God has promised, but you are called to press in, declare God’s faithfulness, and refuse to settle for less. Contending is not striving in your own strength, but standing in faith, knowing that God’s answer is on the way and that every hindrance must bow to His authority. [28:49]
Daniel 10:12-14 (ESV)
"Then he said to me, 'Fear not, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand and humbled yourself before your God, your words have been heard, and I have come because of your words. The prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days, but Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I was left there with the kings of Persia, and came to make you understand what is to happen to your people in the latter days.'"
Reflection: Is there an area where you have grown weary in prayer or waiting for God’s provision? How can you renew your resolve to contend in faith today?
Day 5: Let Faith Shape Your Vision and Generosity
Faith calls you to sow and plan not according to what you see in the natural, but according to God’s promise of abundance—even in times of lack or uncertainty. Like Isaac, who sowed in famine and reaped a hundredfold, you are invited to let God’s vision determine the size of your expectations and the generosity of your actions. Ask God what He is placing in your hands, how He wants you to use it, and be bold to make room for a harvest that exceeds your imagination, trusting Him to multiply what you offer in faith. [33:30]
Genesis 26:12-13 (ESV)
"And Isaac sowed in that land and reaped in the same year a hundredfold. The Lord blessed him, and the man became rich, and gained more and more until he became very wealthy."
Reflection: What is one area where you need to let faith, rather than fear or limitation, shape your vision and your willingness to give or serve today?
Quotes
Jesus tells us that when we change our posture to prioritize the kingdom, there are no limits to the resources we can access. We can have it all. And the fact that we don't earn it so we don't own it, that's an anointing that breaks the yoke. Because we don't have to be perfect. We don't have to be in the perfect circumstances. We don't have to be doing everything just so. We don't have to be great intercessors, great prayers. We don't have to do any of that. God does not require us to be perfect in order to provide for us. He simply requires us to seek. [00:14:50] (48 seconds)
Which means that because he's giving us everything we need for life and godliness. Everything. We can give it away. We don't have to worry. So I've been given this gift. I could give it away. And I'm certain that there will be some form of provision that will come up behind me. Because God is faithful. He is not man that he should lie. So I can be gentle. Generous with what he has given me. I don't have to worry about that. Because he says, everything. [00:11:43] (44 seconds)
Don't be surprised if you get a promise from God, not from Abram, from God, and the very next thing that happens is there is a challenge brought. There was a challenge brought to Abram. What are you going to do, Abram? Are you going to walk in my ways or are you going to try and work it out yourself? Are you going to try to negotiate with Lot? Are you going to change your priorities? What are you going to do? Second thing is expect. Expect immeasurably more than you can ask, imagine, or even think. Think. God didn't put a limit on the provision to Abram. Why would he put a limit on the provision to you? He won't. He won't. [00:21:36] (57 seconds)
We have to do the same. I don't know what God has promised you. I don't know. But he is not man that he should lie. So if he has made you a promise, you can guarantee that it will be delivered to you. You will get your promise. It might take some time. There might be a delay. We'll come to that in a minute. But you will receive your inheritance from the Lord. Whatever he has promised, you will get it. [00:19:43] (36 seconds)
Don't think for a minute that just because you've had something promised to you that it's just going to be handed to you it doesn't it doesn't always happen that way sometimes we have to contend it's really good for us bit of fasting bit of praying bit of stomping around the garden slapping our hands together using that tongue that only comes out when we're really fed up with the enemy and we want to bind him using them it's good for us to contend means we're not taking the resource for granted means we're actually being pretty effective in the kingdom but it also means more than that it means that we know we know that we know that we know that God has promised and he will provide and the thing that's getting in the way is bound and it has no power has no right to get in the way. [00:27:07] (54 seconds)
In the same way, God promises that this provision comes to us again and again and again and again. Remember, this is... We're talking about a generous, extravagant, abundant God who didn't stop at giving his son. So he is committing himself. As you seek me, I will give to you. And I will give it. I'll add it. I'll give it. There'll be more. There'll be increase. I will place additionally. I will repeat it. I will add it again. I'll proceed further. I will go further. More than...you have asked or imagined. That's my promise to you. [00:13:14] (58 seconds)
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