(by Pastor Norman)

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matt 6:33; NKJV). In Psalm 68:19 (NKJV), we read that it is God who brings us salvation and, “daily loads us with benefits.” Jesus died on a cross so we could be forgiven and restored to fellowship with God (Matt 26:28, 1 John 1:7). God has an abundant life for us (John 10:10b). Don’t underestimate God; Jesus calmed a stormy sea (Matt 8:26) and fed 5,000 people with only 5 loaves and 2 fish (Matt 14:17). The abundant life God has for us includes making disciples of all nations! (Matt 28:19). To walk in all God has for us and be His ambassadors (2 Cor 5:20) we must put Him first in our lives (Matt 6:33). He must be our primary focus in all we do, think and say. We can’t focus on the things of the world and expect God’s true fulfillment and abundance. “And do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Rom 12:2a; NKJV). We need to renew our minds with God’s word (2 Tim 3:16; Eph 5:26). All of our thoughts, words and actions need to be directed by God’s Holy Spirit based on His word (Rom 8:6), we cannot be successful depending on our own thoughts. Let’s humble ourselves before God (1 Peter 5:6-7) and let the Holy Spirit direct us and transform us to be more and more like Jesus (Gal 5:22-25, 2 Cor 3:18) “and all these things shall be added to you”.