APR 1

Matthew 6:33
Memorise Matthew 6:33
“…seek ye first the kingdom of God…”

Many people around the world are proud of the national culture they are born into. When my paternal grandmother was alive, she would speak fondly of the China that she left at a young age, and would strive to keep the cultural traditions alive. While she held a Singapore passport, no one who talked to her ever doubted that she was from China.

Once we are born again, we must always remember that we are now citizens of the heavenly kingdom, characterized by the eternal holiness of God. Nothing unholy can enter into heaven (Revelation 21:27), and we must appreciate that it is the priceless gift of God’s own Son that has bought us citizenship there. Although heaven is dressed in gold and precious stones (see Revelation 21), these can only shine when there is light, and thus it is the brilliance of God’s glory and holiness that makes heaven what it is. Therefore to seek the kingdom of God, means that we seek after God Himself. We must realize our present position as born again believers who are headed to the eternal kingdom of God. Yet whilst we are still on earth, the Bible assures us that we are already part of His spiritual kingdom here. Our goal in life must then be to seek to be a useful part of this kingdom, and to demonstrate this by the righteousness of God in us.

While we are still yet on earth, we must already live with eternity’s values in view, being citizens of God’s kingdom. Do not put off knowing God (2 Corinthians 6:2); seek to know Him now, through what He has revealed about Himself in His Holy Word. Experience His leading in your life right now, trusting the promises in His Word. Understand how to lead godly lives through prayer and meditation on Scripture. Visibly place Him first in everything in your life, whether in studies, at home, in leisure, at church, or in relationships (Matthew 6:33). Let your entire being be holy and consecrated to Him, testifying you belong to Him. Dear teen, are you seeking after God?

Thought: Do others see us as citizens of this world or citizens of heaven?
Prayer: Lord, help me and make me, ever, only, all for Thee.