Matthew 6:33-34
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The phrase "all these things" doesn't just mean your basic needs will be met; it implies that what is added will be a bonus, like getting a little extra thread when you buy cloth, or finding that worldly dignities naturally followed a wise request for a royal marriage.
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Jesus is addressing the anxieties and misplaced priorities of his followers regarding material needs like food and clothing, contrasting worldly worry with trust in God’s provision. He has just warned against serving both God and money, urging them instead to consider the birds of the air and lilies of the field as examples of God's care. This verse then offers the positive counterpoint: what they should prioritize above all else.
Jesus doesn't just tell us to seek 'God's kingdom.' He adds another crucial element. What is it, and why are these two inseparable?
When Jesus says 'seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness,' He's pointing us to a two-part mission.
The Kingdom:
This refers to God's reign and rule – not just in the future, but present reality. It's about living under God's authority, where His will is done.
His Righteousness:
This isn't about our attempts to be good. It's about God's own perfect standard and the righteousness that comes from Him, often through faith in Jesus Christ. It's the inner transformation and outward alignment with God's will.
These aren't separate goals; they're deeply connected. God's kingdom is established by His righteousness, and true participation in His kingdom requires us to embrace His righteousness.
Jesus contrasts seeking God's kingdom with worrying about daily needs. What's the incredible promise He makes about those needs?
The core of this verse is a profound promise: when your primary focus is God's kingdom and righteousness, the things you worry about – food, clothing, daily necessities – aren't ignored. Instead, they are 'added.'
This isn't a blank check for unlimited wealth or desires. It's a guarantee that God, as your Heavenly Father, will provide what you .
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Think of it like this: Seeking God's kingdom is the main course, and our daily needs are the delicious side dishes that come with it, given freely by a generous host.
Understand the original words
basileia · Greek Noun
The sovereign rule, reign, or domain of God. In the New Testament, it refers both to the present reality of God’s rule in the hearts of believers and the future consummation of His kingdom at Christ’s return.
dikaiosynē · Greek Noun
The quality or state of being in accordance with God’s standard, character, and law. It encompasses both the gift of justification (being made right with God) and the resulting life of holiness and moral conformity to His will.
kakia · Greek Noun
Pain, suffering, or hardship. In this context, it refers to the inevitable difficulties or distresses that occur within the fallen human experience, which believers are encouraged to face with trust in God rather than self-generated anxiety.
This passage shows God honoring Solomon's selfless request for wisdom to rule His kingdom by adding riches and honor, mirroring how seeking God's kingdom first leads to necessities being provided.
Luke 12:31This parallel account directly echoes Matthew 6:33, emphasizing that seeking God's kingdom is the priority, with the promise that earthly needs will be met.
Romans 14:17This verse defines the Kingdom of God as righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit, aligning with the concept of seeking God's reign in our lives as presented in Matthew.
Philippians 3:9Paul contrasts his own righteousness with the righteousness that comes from God through faith in Christ, highlighting the 'his righteousness' that believers are called to seek.
1 Timothy 4:8This verse connects godliness and training in righteousness with promises for the present life and the life to come, reinforcing the idea that prioritizing spiritual pursuits has tangible benefits.
clarkeMatthew 6:33: "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."
But seek ye first the kingdom of God - See on Matthew 3:7 (note). His righteousness - That holiness of heart and purity of life which God requires of those who profess to be subjects of that spiritual kingdom mentioned above. See on Matthew 5:20 (note). The seventh reason against these worldly cares and fears is - because the business of our salvation ought to engross us en…
pulpitMatthew 6:33: "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."
Verse 33. - Parallel passage: Luke 12:31, which is shorter. But; i.e. in contrast to such seeking as he has just spoken cf. Our Lord at length gives a distinct promise that if God's cause is made the first aim, all the necessaries of life shall be provided. Seek ye first. The difference between ζητεῖν here and ἐπιζητεῖν in ver. 32 seems to be only that the latter points out…
The phrase "all these things" doesn't just mean your basic needs will be met; it implies that what is added will be a bonus, like getting a little extra thread when you buy cloth, or finding that worldly dignities naturally followed a wise request for a royal marriage.
Jesus is addressing the anxieties and misplaced priorities of his followers regarding material needs like food and clothing, contrasting worldly worry with trust in God’s provision. He has just warned against serving both God and money, urging them instead to consider the birds of the air and lilies of the field as examples of God's care. This verse then offers the positive counterpoint: what they should prioritize above all else.
Jesus is addressing the anxieties and misplaced priorities of his followers regarding material needs like food and clothing, contrasting worldly worry with trust in God’s provision. He has just warned against serving both God and money, urging them instead to consider the birds of the air and lilies of the field as examples of God's care. This verse then offers the positive counterpoint: what they should prioritize above all else.
"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble." — The phrase "all these things" doesn't just mean your basic needs will be met; it implies that what is added will be a bonus, like getting a little extra thread when you buy cloth, or finding that w…
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Last reviewed October 2026
