How do we seek God's kingdom and righteousness?
A Young Couple's Journey
Vandy and I got married more than a decade now. As a pastor's wife married to a Khmer pastor in Cambodia, I've had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the incredible work God has done in our lives. Looking back to our early days as a young couple, I'm filled with gratitude for the lessons we've learned and the blessings we've received. One verse that has been a constant source of inspiration and guidance for our family is Matthew 6:33. This verse has been a cornerstone of our faith and has shaped our approach to life and ministry. In fact, it even became a banner of this blog!
My husband and I were just starting out in our new ministry in the city. We were young, full of passion, and eager to make a difference in the world. However, we were also facing many challenges. We were living on a modest income, our living conditions were simple, and we often felt overwhelmed by the responsibilities of ministry. After our mission work in Kratie province, God called us to live and teach in the bible school. Vandy was just ordained as the school's new president. We were grateful that housing was free in the campus. The school ground was vast for planting and growing vegetables. I didn't have any green thumb, but for some wonderful reasons, I was able to grow some lettuce 💪😅 sooo amusing! Vandy also learned how to raise fish. Truly all blessings flow!
There were many obstacles along the way but made us stronger as a couple. There was this time when I would be upset because Vandy wouldn't eat my cooking (admittedly, they weren't tasty before haha.. because I was just learning to cook as well). We would also have some arguments on things - our dynamics were completely different perhaps of culture backgrounds and all. Before I really wanted to work outside, so I could help out in our finances. It was challenging for me to understand why he would want me to wait and set aside this case. I used to be always independent when I was single, but when I got married, I have to consider my husband's thoughts before making any moves or decisions. I confess there were several occasions I would question and dislike his choices. Submission to my husband's authority was like a burden to me then (forgive me Lord!) who could relate?? 😔😢
1. The Power of Gratitude
Gratitude is the foundation of our faith. It acknowledges God's goodness and provision, fostering a sense of contentment and trust. When we cultivate gratitude, we shift our focus from what we lack to what we have, leading to a more positive and hopeful outlook. A grateful heart is less likely to be consumed by envy or comparison, promoting a sense of contentment and peace.
One of the most important lessons we learned during this time was the power of gratitude. No matter how difficult our circumstances were, we made a conscious effort to focus on the blessings in our lives. This helped us to maintain a positive outlook and trust in God's goodness. I want to share to you some of the learnings we yearned on Matthew 6:33, together as a young couple we have been thriving and applying this truth even up until today by God's grace.
2. Living Under Our Means
Living under our means is a practical application of biblical principles of stewardship.
It involves managing our finances wisely and avoiding debt. By living within our means, we reduce financial stress and anxiety, allowing us to focus on more important aspects of life. Additionally, it gives us the freedom to give generously to others and support God's work.
Another valuable lesson we learned was the importance of living under our means. We were careful to budget our money and avoid unnecessary expenses. This helped us to avoid debt and financial stress, and it also allowed us to save for the future.
3. God Knows What We Need
Anticipation on God involves trusting in His providence and believing that He will provide for our needs. It requires active faith, seeking God's guidance and trusting in His timing. By anticipating God, we avoid anxiety and worry, knowing that He is in control. This trust in God's providence can lead to a sense of peace and assurance even in challenging times.
One of the most comforting truths we discovered was that God already knows what we need before we even ask Him. This verse in Matthew 6:33 reassures us that God cares for us and will provide for our needs according to His perfect will.
4. God Blesses Obedience
The promise of Matthew 6:33 is that when we seek God's kingdom and righteousness first, all other things will be added to us. Obedience to God's will aligns our lives with His plan, leading to blessings and fulfillment. By living in obedience, we foster spiritual growth and deepen our relationship with God.
As we continued to seek God's kingdom and His righteousness, we experienced the blessings of His obedience. God provided for our needs in miraculous ways, and He opened doors for us that we never thought possible.
Now that we have a son, this verse takes on even greater significance. We want to teach our David the importance of seeking God first in all aspects of his life. We believe that by doing so, he will experience the blessings of God's love and provision.
Practical Tips for Families
Here are some practical tips for applying Matthew 6:33 to our own family:
a. Pray together daily:
In our family, aside from praying before meals, it is always a habit for us to pray as family before bedtime. It has been our routine (Vandy & I) then when David was younger, we modeled it to him. Praying every night has been our practice whether at home or if we travel. We never break or postpone praying. We share specific concerns what to pray for God's guidance, wisdom, and provision. We also take turns who's going to pray each night, so everyone would have a part leading. Dad would pray in Khmer while David and I would pray in English.
Establishing a daily prayer routine can be a powerful way to seek God's kingdom and righteousness. Gather as a family to express gratitude, share concerns, and seek God's guidance.
b. Focus on gratitude:
Gratitude is a key principle in Matthew 6:33. Encouraging our family to express gratitude daily for the blessings we receive, both big and small. This could involve sharing a meal together, thanking God for the beauty of nature, or simply acknowledging the kindness of others. Cultivate a grateful heart by focusing on the Blesser not only on the blessing.
c. Live under or within your means:
In Cambodia, where resources can be limited, living within our means is especially important. Let us teach our children the value of saving and avoiding unnecessary debt. Encourage them to find joy in simple pleasures rather than striving for material possessions.
Create a budget and avoid unnecessary expenses. Include them in our budgeting and plannings. We actually always involve our son whenever we plan to purchase something or if we would travel anywhere. We also want to hear his inputs and his say about anything. He also knows we prioritize needs over wants. We would tell him our budget limitations.
d. Trust in God's plan:
Help our children understand that God has a plan for their lives. Encourage them to trust in His timing and believe that He will provide for our needs at His own perfect timing. When faced with challenges, remind them of God's promises and the strength that comes from trusting in Him.
Remember that God knows what is best for our family.
Trust in His timing and His will.
e. Teach our children about God:
Vandy and I are very intentional when it comes to our family's values like we forgive sincerely, being honest, loving God, giving our best, being considerate to others, soaking/spending time with God in reading the bible and sharing the gospel to others. We hope and pray David would see and follow them in his heart.
Sharing stories of God's love and faithfulness with our children. Teach them about the Bible and the importance of having a personal relationship with God. Encourage them to ask questions and seek answers together.
In closing, Matthew 6:33 has been a guiding principle for our family, and we believe it can be a source of inspiration and hope for you as well. By seeking God first and trusting in His plan, you will experience the blessings of His love and provision.
How about you? how has Matthew 6:33 inspired you?
xoxo
Love from Cambodia
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