Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God

The Story Behind the Hymn “Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God” by Karen Lafferty

The beloved Scripture song “Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God” has become a staple of contemporary Christian worship across the globe, cherished for its simplicity, scriptural faithfulness, and meditative melody. Written in 1971 by Karen Lafferty, the hymn draws its lyrics almost directly from Matthew 6:33 (KJV): "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." Though straightforward in its musical arrangement, the hymn emerged from a personal spiritual experience that encapsulates a season of surrender, divine provision, and redirection in Lafferty’s life.

Karen Lafferty was a young musician trying to find her way in the music industry when she composed “Seek Ye First.” A classically trained guitarist and singer-songwriter, she had moved to Southern California with aspirations of establishing a professional music career. However, as she became more involved in the Christian community, particularly with the newly forming Calvary Chapel movement in Costa Mesa, her ambitions began to shift. It was in this spiritually fertile environment, amidst the Jesus Movement of the 1970s, that her life and faith were deeply shaped. At the time, she was attending Bible studies and worship services at Calvary Chapel, pastored by Chuck Smith, and was part of the growing number of young believers whose musical talents were being redirected toward worship.

The inspiration for “Seek Ye First” came during a moment of uncertainty in Karen’s life. She had just returned from a ministry trip in New Mexico where she had been performing music for a Christian organization. However, after coming back to California, she found herself in financial difficulty and unsure of her next steps. Feeling burdened and anxious, she turned to the Word of God for comfort and direction. During her quiet time with the Lord, she read Matthew 6, and verse 33 stood out to her like never before. The simplicity and power of Jesus’ instruction to “seek first the kingdom of God” resonated deeply in her heart, and as she meditated on the verse, a melody began to form almost instinctively.

What makes “Seek Ye First” distinct is its direct use of Scripture. Unlike many hymns that paraphrase or reflect upon biblical themes, Lafferty chose to present the verse in its pure, unaltered form. The song's structure is intentionally minimalistic—originally just voice and acoustic guitar—emphasizing the message rather than musical complexity. As she began to sing the newly composed song in her church community, it quickly caught on. The congregation at Calvary Chapel embraced it wholeheartedly, and soon it was being taught to other churches and ministries. The call-and-response form of the song, with its lilting alleluia refrain, made it both accessible and deeply worshipful.

In the years that followed, “Seek Ye First” became one of the most widely sung worship songs in the modern church, included in countless hymnals, worship compilations, and children's songbooks. Despite its humble beginnings, the song was soon sung in churches around the world, translated into multiple languages, and adopted by various Christian denominations. For many, it became not only a musical piece but a spiritual guidepost—a reminder to prioritize God above all else and to trust in His provision. Karen Lafferty’s obedience to God’s prompting that day led to a legacy far beyond what she could have imagined, all beginning with a single verse and a surrendered heart.

Beyond the fame of “Seek Ye First,” Karen Lafferty continued her ministry through music and missions. She eventually became involved with Youth With A Mission (YWAM), where she served for decades, training young missionaries and using music as a bridge for evangelism and discipleship. Her journey reflects the very verse she set to music—by seeking first God’s kingdom, all other things, including a fruitful ministry and enduring impact, were indeed added unto her. “Seek Ye First” remains a poignant testament to how God can use a simple act of faith to touch countless lives across generations.

Copyrights info:

1972 CCCM Music (Admin. by Brentwood-Benson Music Publishing, Inc.),Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publishing (Admin. by Brentwood-Benson Music Publishing, Inc.)