Luke 12:31 Meaning: Seek the Kingdom, and All These Things
But seek God’s Kingdom, and all these things will be added to you.
But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Yet seek ye his kingdom, and these things shall be added unto you.
but, seek ye the reign of God, and all these things shall be added to you.
but seek his kingdom, and [all] these things shall be added to you.
Meaning in one sentence
What does it mean that material things are 'added'? Jesus promises that when we seek God's kingdom, our needs are covered without anxiety.
Context
Jesus has been talking with his disciples about worry. He points to the ravens, God feeds them. He points to the lilies, Solomon's robes can't match them. Then he says something that stings a little: the nations of the world chase after food and clothes, but you have a Father who already knows you need these things. The verse in the middle of this is not a new thought but the point of the whole lesson. Instead of being pulled toward what you lack, turn toward what God is building. Seek that. Everything else will find its place.
Key Words
The Greek word Jesus uses for 'seek' (zēteō) means more than a casual glance. It carries the sense of looking for something until you find it, of making it your aim. The same word is used of hunting for a lost coin or searching for truth. It is an active, ongoing desire.
The word for 'added' (prostithēsetai) is in the passive voice. That matters. You do not add the provisions yourself; they are given to you. It is the same verb used when God 'added' years to Hezekiah's life, something only He can do.
And the little word 'but' (plēn) is a sharp turn. It means 'nevertheless' or 'rather.' It sets up a contrast: the world seeks one way; you are to seek another. The turn is not just about what you look for, but about who you trust to provide it.
How Christians Read This Verse
Christians across traditions have read this verse as the hinge of Jesus' teaching on anxiety. Matthew Henry saw it as the cure for 'inordinate care', not the absence of need, but the presence of a Father who knows. John Gill noted that 'all these things' refers specifically to food and clothing, not wealth or comfort. The phrase 'added to you' has been understood as God's extra gift to those whose main treasure is His kingdom. In Catholic teaching, this verse is often tied to the call to trust divine providence while actively pursuing justice and mercy. All traditions agree: the promise is about our deepest needs, not our wants.
A common misunderstanding
A common misreading is that Jesus guarantees wealth if you put God first. But look at the context. The lilies and ravens do not have bank accounts. 'All these things' are the basic needs, food and clothing, that the Gentiles chase after with anxiety. The promise is not about prosperity; it is about freedom from worry. In fact, Jesus immediately says, 'Sell what you have and give gifts to the needy' (v33). The kingdom seeker may end up with less stuff, not more, but with a heart at rest.
Living This Out
This week, notice when your mind circles around money, groceries, bills, or job security. Let that circling be a signal. Instead of rehearsing the problem, take one concrete step toward the kingdom: choose generosity when you feel tight, give time to someone in need, or simply tell God, 'I am seeking You first in this.' The promise is not that you will never feel the pinch, but that you will find your true provision in Him. The added things will come, sometimes in surprising ways.
Main takeaway: When you make God's kingdom your one aim, He takes responsibility for everything else you need.
For Families
For ages 5, 8
Jesus says to put God first, like choosing the most important toy first. When you do that, God makes sure you have what you need.
For ages 9, 12
When you worry about not having enough, like money for lunch or new clothes, remember Jesus told us not to be like everyone else who frets over stuff. Instead, focus on what matters to God: being kind, honest, and loving. God knows you need things, and He promises to take care of you. You might not get everything you want, but you will have what you really need.
Questions People Ask
What does 'seek the kingdom of God' actually mean in this verse?
It means making God's rule and righteousness your main goal in life. Not just going to church, but letting His way shape your choices, your money, your time. It is an active, daily pursuit, like looking for something precious until you find it.
Does this verse promise that you will never struggle financially?
No. Jesus is talking about basic needs, food and clothing, not wealth. He says just before this that the ravens and lilies are provided for, yet they still face the elements. The promise is that God will not abandon you to lack, and you can be free from anxiety even when resources are tight.
Why does Luke 12:31 say 'seek God's kingdom' while Matthew 6:33 says 'seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness'?
Luke's version is shorter, but the meaning is the same. Some ancient copies of Luke add 'first' or 'and his righteousness,' which shows how closely connected these two Gospels are. Both emphasize that the kingdom is the priority, and everything else follows.
What are 'all these things' that will be added?
From the context, it is the food and clothing Jesus has been talking about. He mentions what we eat and what we wear in verses 22-30. So it refers to the basic necessities of life, not luxuries or extras.
For pastors & researchers
Greek interlinear, 8 commentaries & word study