Seeking God’s kingdom profoundly impacts our approach to making amends by shifting our focus from merely rectifying past wrongs to embodying the values and principles of God’s reign in our lives. When we seek God’s kingdom first, as Jesus instructs in Matthew 6:33, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you,” we prioritize living in alignment with God’s will and purposes.
- Guided by Love and Compassion:
When we seek God’s kingdom, we are motivated by love and compassion rather than guilt or obligation. Jesus commands us in John 13:34, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” Approaching amends with a heart full of Christ’s love helps us to genuinely seek reconciliation and healing, rather than just fulfilling a duty. - Embracing Forgiveness:
In seeking God’s kingdom, we understand the importance of forgiveness, both receiving it from God and extending it to others. Ephesians 4:32 teaches us, “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” When making amends, this mindset helps us to forgive others and ask for forgiveness with humility and sincerity. - Cultivating Humility and Repentance:
A kingdom mindset instills in us a sense of humility and the need for genuine repentance. James 4:10 says, “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” Approaching those we’ve wronged with a humble heart reflects our understanding of our own need for God’s grace and mercy. - Pursuing Peace and Reconciliation:
As citizens of God’s kingdom, we are called to be peacemakers. Matthew 5:9 declares, “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.” In making amends, we seek to restore broken relationships and promote peace and unity, reflecting the reconciliatory nature of God’s kingdom. - Reflecting Christ’s Character:
Seeking God’s kingdom means striving to reflect Christ’s character in all we do. Colossians 3:12-14 urges us, “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.” In making amends, we embody these virtues, demonstrating the transformative power of Christ in our lives.
By seeking God’s kingdom, we approach making amends not just as a necessary task but as a holy and redemptive act that glorifies God, heals relationships, and advances His kingdom on earth. May we always strive to live out these kingdom values in every aspect of our lives. Amen.
Source: ESV Bible and Bible Chat