Kingdom Alignment

Continuing the study of prayer, Luke 11 and other passages.
In Matthew 6:33 we read, " But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

"First" in this directive of the Master is not equivalent to priority.  "First" indicates that if we seek first his kingdom and his righteousness there will be nothing more to seek because we have submitted our will to His.  It is Jesus only, nothing more, nothing less.

We cannot allow our desires to supersede the will of God.  This is not an option, it is a matter of obedience.  Sacrifice is not enough; obedience is key.  "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says."  --James 1:22 (NIV)
The Lord's prayer is a prayer of surrender.  "Thy kingdom come, thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven."

It is clear that it is God's will
     1. that you be saved.  (John 3:16)
     2. that you be sanctified. (I Thessalonians 4:3)
     3. that you pray continually. (I Thessalonians 5:17)
     4. that you do good deeds.  (I Peter 2:15)

Take delight in the Lord,  and he will give you the desires of your heart. --Psalm 37:4
Which is to say that  if we delight in the Lord our desires will be His will, not our own.

 Trust in the Lord with all your heart
    and lean not on your own understanding;
 in all your ways submit to him,
    and he will make your paths straight.  --Proverbs 3:5,6

How would your life be different if knowing and following God's will were your highest priority?

Pastor Johnnie Blair

Sunday morning