“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33 NIV
God who rules over all,
Holy Week is what we now call this week in the church calendar. I wonder what You call it Father? Does it need a name? We are drawing near to celebrating Jesus death. That really is an oxymoron (like saying bittersweet). Jesus is going about his life as usual. Not complaining, not overwhelmed with fear or self sympathy. He is focused and expecting You, His heavenly Father to plan, purpose and provide. Knowing His death draws nearer.
You remind us that people who love, desire and worship things more than You, will not do well eternally to say the least! Rich men (lovers of money) cannot pass through eye of a needle and enter the Kingdom of God.
Jesus went through death in order that we might be rich in the things that matter. He came to give us Your life. If we seek a relationship with You first, as King and our Lord, You add all the things of Your Kingdom to us. Grace, peace, faith hope and love. And the greatest of these is love . . . thank You Lord. Keep us seeking and receiving.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Suggestions for prayer . . .
God who rules over all,
For our family, friends and neighbours. Each one personally, with their own needs and hopes.
For our Ministers, church leadership and those who come to our church Sundays or mid week.
For our young people to find Your purpose for their life and the opportunity to follow it.
For the Royal family. Charles and Kate to be well during treatment. For those covering for them.
For our government. The Lords and Commons. Respect, service and unity for our nations best.
For our nearest towns and cities and city centres. For employment, development and growth.
For an end to the war in Ukraine.
For a solution for Gaza and peace and healing and a way to rebuild relationships and homes.
For countries where there is conflict, oppression or famine – provision, safety and support.
For a move of Your Spirit to fill hearts this Easter with Your Son and Your gift of life.
For us to have a cheerful day blessed with Your provision, joy and desire to do good. And the promise of a good nights sleep.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Tuesday 26th March 2024
This was written in 1971 by Karen Lafferty, inspired by a Bible study on the verse “Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God” (Matthew 6:33) at Calvary Chapel. It become one of the most well-known praise chorus’s and entered in many recent hymnals. The original version only included a single verse with a refrain of alleluias, which can also be sung as a round. The other verses, of anonymous authorship, were added based on Matthew 7:7 and Matthew 4:4.
Seek ye first the kingdom of God
And His righteousness;
And all these things shall be added unto you.
Hallelu, Hallelujah!
Ask, and it shall be given unto you;
Seek, and you shall find.
Knock, and it shall be opened unto you.
Hallelu, Hallelujah!
You shall not live by bread alone,
But by every word
That proceeds out from the mouth of God.
Hallelu, Hallelujah!
And if the Son shall set you free
Ye shall be free indeed
Ye shall know the truth, and it shall set you free
Hallelu, Hallelujah!
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart
He shall direct thy paths
In all thy ways acknowledge Him
Hallelu, Hallelujah!
Lyrics and music by Karen Lafferty and anonymous.