Scripture References: Matthew 6:19-34; Zechariah 14:8-9

Sermon Notes:

Intro: Welcome! Today's message focuses on Jesus' command in Matthew 6: "Seek First the Kingdom of God." This isn't just for mature believers, but a call for everyone – the faithful, the struggling, and those just exploring faith. It's about prioritizing God's reign and rule in our lives above all else.

Key Points: (Based on Matthew 6:19-34)

1. Where is Your Treasure? (v. 19-21): Jesus contrasts storing treasures on earth (vulnerable to decay, theft) with storing treasures in heaven (secure). Your heart follows your treasure. Seeking the Kingdom means valuing heavenly treasure most.
2. What Are Your Eyes Fixed On? (v. 22-23): Healthy eyes (focused on God's Kingdom) fill your life with light. Unhealthy eyes (focused on worldly things, worries) lead to darkness. Seeking the Kingdom requires fixing our focus.
3. Who is Your Master? (v. 24): You cannot serve two masters (God vs. Money/anything else). You'll inevitably love one and hate the other. Serving anything other than God leads to dissatisfaction. Choosing God as Master brings peace because He is good.
4. Why Worry? (v. 25-32): Jesus commands us not to worry about basic needs (food, clothing, life). God cares for nature; He values us far more. Worry accomplishes nothing. Unbelievers ("pagans") chase these things, but your Heavenly Father knows you need them.
5. The Central Command (v. 33): "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." This is the solution to misplaced treasure, wrong focus, divided loyalty, and worry. Prioritize God's reign and right way of living.
6. Benefits of Seeking First:
   • Peace is Possible: Trusting God's provision frees us from anxiety over earthly possessions/circumstances.
   • Confidence Can Be Had: Knowing our immense value to the Father and our identity in Christ brings confidence, silencing the "you of little faith" doubt.
   • Identity Empowers: Knowing who we are in Christ stops us from seeking affirmation elsewhere. We become fountains pouring out God's life, not sinkholes draining others.

Conclusion: Jesus calls us to radically reorient our lives around seeking His Kingdom and righteousness first. This isn't complex, but it challenges our deepest anxieties and desires. When we trust God as our Father and Master, prioritizing His reign, He promises peace, confidence, and provision for all our needs.

Call to Action:

• Honestly assess: What are you truly seeking first in your life? Where are your treasure, focus, loyalty, and worries?
• Choose today to trust God as your provider and Father.
• Intentionally shift your focus: Make seeking His Kingdom and righteousness your primary pursuit.
• Lay down worry about earthly needs, believing your Father knows and cares.
• See the fruit: Expect God to provide peace, confidence, and necessary provision as you prioritize Him. (Transition to Teen Challenge testimony as examples of lives transformed by seeking His Kingdom).

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