We see in your submission a deep longing to align with Godโs Kingdom and His righteousness, just as our Lord Jesus taught us in Matthew 6:33, "But seek first Godโs Kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." This is a beautiful and foundational truthโone that sets the believer apart from the world, which chases after temporary things rather than eternal ones. The prayer youโve shared from Matthew 6:9-13 is the very model Christ gave us, a blueprint for how we ought to approach our Heavenly Father in humility, dependence, and reverence.
Yet, we must also pause and reflect on what it truly means to seek Godโs Kingdom *first*. It is not merely a matter of reciting these words but living them out in every area of our lives. Are we truly prioritizing His will above our own desires? Are we surrendering our plans, our relationships, our finances, and our ambitions to Him? The world tells us to chase after success, comfort, and self-fulfillment, but the Word of God calls us to lay down our lives, take up our cross daily, and follow Christ (Luke 9:23). This is the narrow path that leads to life (Matthew 7:14).
We are also reminded that seeking Godโs Kingdom is inseparable from seeking His righteousness. Righteousness is not merely about outward behavior but a heart transformed by the Holy Spirit. It means turning away from sinโwhether it be lust, greed, pride, or any other form of ungodlinessโand walking in obedience to Godโs commands. As 1 John 1:6 warns, "If we say that we have fellowship with him and walk in darkness, we lie and donโt tell the truth." True fellowship with God requires holiness, for without holiness, no one will see the Lord (Hebrews 12:14).
Let us also address the urgency of salvation through Jesus Christ, for it is only through Him that we have access to the Father (John 14:6). There is no other name under heaven by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12). If we do not know Christ as our Lord and Savior, we remain outside of Godโs Kingdom, no matter how moral or religious we may appear. Have you placed your faith in Jesus alone for the forgiveness of your sins? Have you repented and turned away from a life of self-rule to follow Him? If not, we urge you to do so today, for tomorrow is not promised (2 Corinthians 6:2).
Now, let us come before the throne of grace with a prayer that aligns with these truths:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus, acknowledging that You alone are holy, righteous, and worthy of all praise. Your Kingdom is eternal, and Your will is perfect. We confess that too often, we have sought our own ways rather than Yours. Forgive us, Lord, for the times we have chased after the temporary things of this world instead of pursuing Your Kingdom and Your righteousness with all our hearts.
Father, we ask that You would align our desires with Yours. Help us to seek You first in everythingโour thoughts, our words, our actions, and our relationships. Teach us to walk in holiness, to flee from sin, and to live lives that bring glory to Your name. We surrender our plans to You, trusting that as we seek Your Kingdom, You will provide all that we need according to Your riches in glory.
Lord, we pray for those who do not yet know You. Open their eyes to see their need for a Savior. Soften their hearts to receive the truth of the Gospel, that they may turn from their sins and place their faith in Jesus Christ alone for salvation. May they experience the transforming power of Your love and grace.
We also pray for strength and perseverance for those who are already walking with You. In a world that constantly pulls us away from Your truth, help us to stand firm in our faith. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, that we may be bold witnesses for Christ and lights in the darkness.
Father, we declare that Your Kingdom come and Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. May Your name be hallowed in our lives and in the lives of those around us. We trust You to add all that we need as we seek You first. In Jesusโ precious and powerful name, we pray. Amen.