Matthew 6:33’s Added Things by Stephen Bly
I first learned about God’s added things with these words. “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things will be added unto you.” This was my favorite verse after I became a Christian. I remember with great clarity driving a cotton-picking machine on my father’s farm when the impact of that verse first hit me. I felt God speaking to me, calling me to full-time ministry.
Later, Matthew 6:33 became my Life Verse. What a help to sort out the onslaught of busyness through the years. And, most certainly, the Lord has added things, such as many unexpected gifts and surprises along the way.
He added basics and more, such as abilities and material luxuries. I’ve learned to fix a mean pot of Spicy Elk Chili on Wild Game Feed nights at my church. My horses and corrals bring me much pleasure. What would I grab if my house caught on fire? My first model ’73 Winchester saddle ring carbine. And I’d drive it away in my Chevy Silverado pickup. These are not the main things, but they’re added things.
God also added a vocation. In fact, He opened up more than one. I serve as pastor at Winchester Community Church. Another job description includes signing payroll checks as mayor of the city of Winchester, Idaho. God privileged me also to be a writer.
More Treasures
He added a little bit of fame. Three teenage girls at the last CBA Christian Bookseller’s convention pointed at me and yelled in chorus, “That’s Stephen Bly!” I find quite delightful that some novelists have made mention of me in their stories. And how amazing to find some of my books at Barnes and Noble and Walmart. The other day I received a call from someone who said, “I can’t believe I’m actually talking to you!” What an incredible added thing. But it’s not at all the main thing.
How I love all the added friends from all over the country. There’s Lila of Wheaton who edits my books. Danni in Malta, Montana, buys my books by the cartons. Angela of Christiansburg, Virginia writes me and begs, “Please, please, Mr. Bly, don’t let Harriet Reed marry Stuart Brannon. She’s not right for him!” And young Daniel in San Diego tells me he held back when tempted to cheat because “Stuart Brannon wouldn’t do that.” Though precious friends like these matter a great deal, they’re not the main thing.
And God added a wonderful family to my life. I cherish and love my wife, Janet, my three sons, my daughters-in-law, and grandchildren. But even these are not the main thing.
On a side note, consider Job. He’s the ultimate example of a man who had added things taken away.
What Is The Main Thing?
It’s a good thing to reflect from time to time on the added things. They’re important. Some are critical, even vital to our health and well being. Yours may be similar or much different than mine. Doesn’t matter. One thing remains the same. They’re not the main thing.
So, what is?
Seek first the kingdom of God. Seek the rule and reign of Jesus in your heart and mind. Believe in Him. Trust Him. Acknowledge Him as Lord and Savior. Allow Him daily to rule and reign in your life. Permit the Holy Spirit to empower you in right behavior and thought. Focus always on Him. He comes first.
What are the good things added to your own life? What would it look like if you sought first the Kingdom of God today?
Stephen Bly
Copyright©1998
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Added Things” podcast by Stephen Bly, recorded 8-29-1998 at Cannon Beach, Oregon Conference Center
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Check out the Bly House AirB&B, now owned by Winchester Lake Lodge THE BLY HOUSE
Matthew 6:33 has been a long-time favorite verse for me. Stephen brought it to life with his illustrations of “added things.” How I would have loved to meet him! I’d still like to meet Janet some day and visit Broken Arrow Crossing if it’s still standing. Stephen and Janet continue to touch lives through their writing. I thank God for both of them.
Mark: Matthew 6:33 was Stephen’s life verse. Yes, Broken Arrow Crossing still exists in Winchester, Idaho, and the house attached is rented out as an AirB&B. You can visit anytime. Blessings to you for your kind words!