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Recently I have been doing some reading and reflecting on the writing of Abraham Kuyper. Kuyper’s writings are rich with a theological depth with challenging practical insight, especially on themes like the sovereignty of God, common grace, cultural engagement, and the lordship of Christ over all of life. This week's devotions will reflect some of the themes that I found important personally.
August 25, 2025
Matthew 6:33
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
What are you really chasing?
Jesus’ words in Matthew 6 challenge the way we naturally think. We often strive for security, comfort, or recognition, believing these will satisfy us. But Jesus turns that idea upside down, urging us to “Seek first My Kingdom.” Abraham Kuyper in his writings expanded on this, emphasizing that God’s Kingdom isn’t just a far-off spiritual concept, it is present here and now, and we’re invited to participate in it.
Simply put, the Kingdom of God is where God’s will is done on earth as it is in heaven. I know it might seem big and abstract, but it's actually quite practical. You see what is implied here is that every act of justice, every choice of mercy, every expression of beauty or truth, every moment where Christ is honored, these are Kingdom moments. And here’s the thing: it doesn’t just happen in church. It happens in our homes, our workplaces, our neighborhoods, and even in how we make everyday choices. It is from this understanding that Kuyper consistently challenged the church to embrace its mission in every part of life, not just within its walls.
Take Andre, for example. Early in his career, he measured success by promotions and recognition. But as he grew, he began asking a different question: “What if my work reflected Kingdom values?” He started paying fair wages, mentoring employees, and investing in the community. At first, it didn’t feel like the most “successful” choice, but over time, he realized his work was changing lives, not just profits. That’s the Kingdom in action.
Colossians 3:17
So, I ask us all again, "What are you really chasing?"
Let's Pray
Father, let Your Kingdom come in me and through me. Help me to seek Your will above my own comfort, ambitions, and desires. Give me eyes to see Your work in the world and a heart that longs to join in. Let my life, my choices, relationships, and work—reflect Your Kingdom in tangible ways. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
“The world is still God's world. The Kingdom is coming.
Our calling is to live and labor in light of that coming reality.”
Abraham Kuyper
What are you really chasing?
Jesus’ words in Matthew 6 challenge the way we naturally think. We often strive for security, comfort, or recognition, believing these will satisfy us. But Jesus turns that idea upside down, urging us to “Seek first My Kingdom.” Abraham Kuyper in his writings expanded on this, emphasizing that God’s Kingdom isn’t just a far-off spiritual concept, it is present here and now, and we’re invited to participate in it.
Simply put, the Kingdom of God is where God’s will is done on earth as it is in heaven. I know it might seem big and abstract, but it's actually quite practical. You see what is implied here is that every act of justice, every choice of mercy, every expression of beauty or truth, every moment where Christ is honored, these are Kingdom moments. And here’s the thing: it doesn’t just happen in church. It happens in our homes, our workplaces, our neighborhoods, and even in how we make everyday choices. It is from this understanding that Kuyper consistently challenged the church to embrace its mission in every part of life, not just within its walls.
Take Andre, for example. Early in his career, he measured success by promotions and recognition. But as he grew, he began asking a different question: “What if my work reflected Kingdom values?” He started paying fair wages, mentoring employees, and investing in the community. At first, it didn’t feel like the most “successful” choice, but over time, he realized his work was changing lives, not just profits. That’s the Kingdom in action.
Colossians 3:17
“whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
1 Corinthians 10:31
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Viewing life through a Kingdom lens changes everything, how you vote, spend money, use your time, treat strangers, and handle conflict. It all matters. As Kuyper reminds us, this world isn’t just a waiting room for heaven; it’s a mission field, a canvas, a place where God is at work, inviting us to join Him.
Viewing life through a Kingdom lens changes everything, how you vote, spend money, use your time, treat strangers, and handle conflict. It all matters. As Kuyper reminds us, this world isn’t just a waiting room for heaven; it’s a mission field, a canvas, a place where God is at work, inviting us to join Him.
So, I ask us all again, "What are you really chasing?"
Let's Pray
Father, let Your Kingdom come in me and through me. Help me to seek Your will above my own comfort, ambitions, and desires. Give me eyes to see Your work in the world and a heart that longs to join in. Let my life, my choices, relationships, and work—reflect Your Kingdom in tangible ways. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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