Day 11 – Power Source

Scripture

2 Corinthians 4:6,7

For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us

 John 8:12

Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”

 

Thought for Today

Have you ever wrestled with a circumstance, complained in frustration, or felt helpless? Many have exclaimed, “I’m doing the best I can!” when their best efforts fail.  Most humans have the tendency to try to solve problems on their own. Even the most mature Christians have been tempted to solve a situation themselves, especially when a sudden problem takes them by surprise.

The Almighty God knows our weaknesses. Therefore, He reminds us that He supplies all the answers to our questions and solutions to our problems. Trusting and recognizing Him, and not what we understand, puts us on the path to limitless power (Proverbs 3:5,6). We may be gifted with intelligence, education, or many skills. God, however, is the very source from which all things exist. He knows the before, during, and after throughout eternity.

Power is an eternal and inherent trait of God (Romans 1:20). He encourages us to draw upon His power and wisdom, which never fail. As the Origin of dynamic power, God knows that without him we have no light in the darkness. The wonderful news is that we don’t have to rely on our finite minds and frail bodies to figure out what to do. The Creator has placed the knowledge in our hearts that God’s dazzling glory shined bright in the face of Our Savior, Jesus Christ!

The Apostle Paul writes that we are privileged to carry this treasure in our earthen vessels. He makes it clear, however, that the excellence of this power is of God. It is not of us, for we are dim and powerless without the light of the Father and redemption through His Son. Having accepted Jesus, you have been born again into His Kingdom of marvelous light. You have access to the power of the Holy Spirit Himself (Acts 1:8).
 

In your weakness, the power of God is perfectly strengthened (2 Corinthians 12:9). You do not have to function independent of love, mercy, and help from the All-Powerful One in times of trouble or indecision. He is willing to pour out the spirit of power, along with love and a sound mind. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you with all you need to make your paths straight. He is worthy of all praise!

 

You are the Source of my strength

You are the Strength of my life

I lift my hands in total praise to You!

                              -Total Praise Richard Smallwood ©2003

Time to Pray!

Gracious Father God, we are grateful that You allow us to lean on You rather than ourselves. Thank you for access to Your power from heaven to be able to do all things through Your Son who strengthens us. We worship You in humility and honor in the name of Jesus. Amen

 

 


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Day 10 – Created for Good Works

 

Scripture 

Galatians 6:9

And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

 Ephesians 2:10

For we are His workmanship, having been created in Christ Jesus for good works which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in then.

 

Thought for Today

God observes the things you do, say, and think every second of the day. You have his attention whether you do things that are pleasing to Him or taking actions that need His correction. God sees when you make an effort to serve someone else and, at times, placing their needs above your own. In some instances you don’t feel appreciated by the recipient. Or, your help is answered with a dry “thanks” at best. The Bible has all the answers you need to avoid being discouraged or angry when this occurs.

The key to not taking offense is to know that it is God, not you, who sets the stage for you to do good works. How many times have you “felt led” by the Holy Spirit to do or say something good that you had not planned? The truth is that The Creator fashioned you to walk in good works. When you obey, you are walking out what He has already planned. This takes pressure off of you. You’re less likely to feel hurt or offended. Once you’ve obeyed His voice, the reaction (or lack of it) is out of your control.

Further, you must recall the devil is always on the sidelines waiting to attack. Something which could possibly be a simple misunderstanding can cause hurt or discord between you and your brother or sister. Maybe the person is too overwhelmed or even too shy to express their gratitude. Maybe your expectation of their reaction was set too high. Choose Christ-like love rather than allow any place for the enemy. This love bears, believes, endures, and hopes all things (1 Corinthians 13:7).  So whether a slight is intentional or not, love covers the situation and leaves the hearts of all parties intact.

Never get too weary or discouraged to do good works-large or small. A love for giving and serving others is a heaven sent gift. Notice how you feel genuine joy when you meet a need or make someone feel special. You might be having a challenging day and performing a good work lifts your spirit. Father God gives you the calling, the resources, and the strength to do the His work. Even more, He rewards you for your obedience as you do such works with a heart full of love because you’re doing them for Him and not men (Colossians 3:23).

This and every day, sow seeds of love and peace that reflect the fruit of the Kingdom of God. The Lord promises a season of reaping rewards prepared for you if you don’t give up.

 

It’s Time to Pray

Thank you Lord God for using me as a servant in Your time and purpose. Help me stay strong and resist any scheme of the devil to discourage me from doing good works to others. Your Will be done in all things. In the name of Jesus. Amen


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Day 9 – Living Holy in Wholeness

Scripture

James 1:3, 4

Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

John 5:6-8

When Jesus saw him…He saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole? The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man…to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me.  Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk. And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and walked.

James 5:14

Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, Behold, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.

 

Thought for Today

 Every believer in Christ can relate countless testimonies about God’s deliverance in times of trouble. He’s faithful to relieve us from pain, financial burdens, and sometimes our own minds. When God answers prayer, we immediately feel more like ourselves as we shout a grateful, “Thank You Lord!” For the moment, life seems back to “normal.”, or whole again. Yet, God sees you as totally complete before, during, and after the trials you face.

In fact, James 1:2-4 is a reminder that testing and trials should be considered joyful, since patience is produced during these times. Rather than feeling rejected and unworthy, know that when you face adversity your patience is perfected. You are entirely whole and lack nothing! Your position as a child of God by the sacrifice of His Son Jesus makes you an heir to the heavenly kingdom. As such, your location or circumstances have no effect on your value.

You have this heavenly assurance by the inspired Word of God. Romans 8:31 says you are more than a conqueror. 1 John 5:4 proclaims you have the victory that overcomes the world. These and many other scriptures affirm that you are whole in Christ, without regard to your earthly situation. God’s Word offers you the keys to maintaining this state of blessed completeness.

For instance, when Jesus healed the man in the pool of Bethesda, He first asked whether he wanted to be healed. The Lord listened to his answer and then spoke immediate healing, which the man received. Later, Jesus reminded him not to sin again lest he suffer a worse fate. You too must have the desire to be whole, hear and obey God’s instructions, and live your life in holiness.

Jesus affirmed that faith is also a direct link to healing.  Two of these instances include when He healed the woman with the issue of blood (Matthew 9:22) and the leper (Luke 17:19). 1 John 5:4 makes it clear that faith is the victory that overcomes the world. The Lord God sees you with nothing missing, through eyes of redemption and love. Let prayer and the World help you build up your faith and holiness and live in wholeness with confidence.

“But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct.” 1 Peter 1:15

It’s Time to Pray!

Father God, thank you for fashioning me as a complete and new creation. Your grace and mercy are limitless. You supply everything I need according to the riches of Your power. Help to live a life that is pleasing in Your sight. In the name of Jesus. Amen


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Day 8 – No Greater Love

 

Scripture

John 15:13,14 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you (KJV).

John 13:1b Jesus knew that His hour had come…having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end.

Ephesians 3: 17b-19  And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

 

Thought for Today

The heart of affection that Jesus has toward you is the essence of love and joy perfected. The love He feels for you is always active; it is immeasurable and everlasting. Nothing can separate you from His devotion (Romans 8:38,39). 

In times of testing He draws nearer to you, just like an earthly parent to a hurting child. He understands that it may be hard to feel His presence when you are under fire. However, if you ask Him for reassurance, He will speak words of life and love to you through the Word of God and the Holy Spirit. Because of this, pressing in with prayer is most important when you face a challenging trial.

In Jeremiah 31:3 God says, “I have loved you with an everlasting love” and drawn you with lovingkindness. Nothing is too far, high or low for the love of Jesus to cover you when you need Him. The depth of His love is like a well that never runs dry. Jesus left a Helper, the Holy Spirit, to comfort you and deliver your desires and needs to heaven with perfect communication. His love is poured out in your heart by the Spirit Himself (Romans 5:5).

Unlike imperfect people, Jesus never leaves you guessing where you stand in His eyes. He does not cut off your access to Him when you make mistakes. His loves you generously, even though He owes you nothing.  In John 15:14 Jesus said He considers those that do what He commands as friends. Jesus makes His expectations clear in the bible so that you know what pleases Him. His yoke is easy and burden is light; Jesus makes provision for confession and repentance for your sins.

Jesus Christ actively demonstrates His love for you in limitless ways each day. He is King of Kings, through which all things were made and all that you have is given. Above all else, you have the hope of eternal salvation because Jesus laid down His life as a sacrifice for you, His friend.

 

Time to Pray

Father God, thank You for Your Son, Jesus. Words fail to describe our gratitude that Jesus Christ is our Redeemer, Lord, Savior, and Friend. Remind us each day to praise and worship Him and tell others of His love and great sacrifice. In the name of Jesus. Amen


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Day 7 – Undisputed Champions

 
Scripture
 
Romans 8:37
Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. 

Deuteronomy 20:4
For the Lord God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory.
 
1 Corinthians 15:57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
 
 
 
Thought for Today

UNDISPUTED CHAMPIONS are rare in any sport or field in life. Think about how difficult it is to compete or perform for an entire season or timespan and be considered the very best by reporters, competitors, and fans. These high achievers reach levels which surpass just winning. They consistently shatter records and become influential members of society.

UNDISPUTED CHAMPIONS are not perfect. In fact, they may have numerous imperfections. But they are known as champions for their irrefutable ability to work hard, to stay focused on their goal. They stick together with their team, overcome adversity, persevere through difficult times and pursue victory with diligence. Society labels someone who has attained the highest goals in their field as a GOAT (Greatest of all Time). God’s promises of true victory are yours when you apply the same perseverance, team loyalty, and tenacity to your life as a believer in Christ.

Throughout the scriptures, the Lord reminds you of your status as an elite and unquestioned champion! Yes, in this life you face many challenges that are far beyond your natural ability to overcome them. Additionally, you have a formidable opponent in the devil who hates you. He constantly devises plans and schemes to defeat you by keeping you in a state of discouragement and despair. As we experience these things, it is critical trust God, call upon Him in prayer, stand on His Word and watch Him lead you to victory.

The Apostle John declared our victory. “For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.” (1 John 5:4) 

There is no dispute that after Jesus died on the cross that on the third day, God the Father raised His only begotten Son from the dead. In doing so, Jesus conquered death, hell and the grave. Jesus, the risen Christ, is the ULTIMATE UNDISPUTED CHAMPION! He has conquered all things for us, no matter what we face in life. And more, He has made you more than a conqueror, a champion who cannot ever lose!

Time to Pray!
Lord Jesus, I thank You for saving me from my sins and giving me everlasting life through my confession of faith in You. I praise You as my Savior, Lord and UNDISPUTED CHAMPION who has defeated every foe that I will face in life. I believe You that no matter what challenge I face, I am victorious in You. In Jesus name, Amen!


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Day 6 – Ask, Seek, and Knock

 

Scripture: Matthew 7:7-8
 
“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.  “He who has ears to hear, let him hear!”
 
Thought for Today:  What do you want to ask of God?
 
ASK is a term that is often overlooked as an important part of our relationship with Christ. His ears are always open to our concerns, needs and desires. He invited us to ask, seek, and to knock. We must learn how to approach Christ in prayer if we truly desire to know Him and accept this invitation.
 
Jesus said that He came to earth that we may live “life more abundantly.” He alone is the source for everything that we need spiritually and naturally to live as He has promised. He is willing and waiting to supply every need that you have if you will simply ask Him!

Prayer is the personal privilege of talking with the Lord. We can ask Him questions that only He can answer, request solutions to issues that only He can provide. Jesus promised we will be given what we ask for, find what we seek, and that closed doors will be opened. Praying with this assurance includes:

• Asking in faith (James 1:5-8). To doubt Him is to be double-minded.
• Requesting according to His Word and His Will (1 John 5:14,15).
• Patiently waiting for His answer following prayer (Psalm 27:4).
• Obeying His instructions (John 14:23,24).

As you ask things of God in prayer, the Holy Spirit will give you the words to speak and will intercede before the Father on your behalf.

Jesus teaches the disciples (and us) how to approach Him in Matthew 7:7-8. He challenges them and offers to make their requests known directly to Him. Later, He says, “You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.” (John 14:14).

So as we pray, let’s pray with boldness, yet approaching the Lord in humility. Ask (believing) with confidence, Seek with care and pursuit, Knock with persistence and watch God move with power and authority in our life and circumstances.

Remember, it’s in the Asking!
 
It’s Time to Pray: Dear Holy Spirit, teach me how to pray in faith with greater boldness. I desire to Ask with confidence, Seek with care and pursuit, Knock with persistence in the Name of Jesus and believe God for the impossible…

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Day 5 – Kingdom Attire: Clothed in Righteousness

Scripture

Ephesians 6:11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

Colossians 3:12 Therefore, as the elect of God, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, long-suffering…

1 Thessalonians 5:8 But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation

Isaiah 61:10 I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, My soul shall be joyful…for He has clothed me with garments of salvation…covered me with the robe of righteousness…

Thought for Today

“Clothes mean nothing until someone lives in them.” -Marc Jacobs, American fashion designer

Think about the garments, shoes, and other accessories you own. Imagine waking up one morning and rather than getting dressed, you decide to leave them all in your closet. You go through your daily responsibilities undressed and vulnerable to exposure, illness, and embarrassment (at the very least).

Meanwhile, your apparel is clean and neatly pressed, ready and available to cover you as needed for the day. Marc Jacobs’ statement is accurate; countless personal closets, boutiques and retail stores are packed with unworn or unwanted clothing worth billions of dollars. Until a living, breathing human being adorns them, they are plain lifeless pieces of fabric draped on hangers.

Let’s apply this principle to what you wear as a kingdom resident. Do you put as much thought and effort into your spiritual adornment as your outward appearance? There is nothing wrong with aspiring to look your best. But when it comes to spiritual matters, much more is at stake than making the worst dressed list.
 

Wearable Warfare

The Apostle Paul penned a head-to-toe spiritual warfare ensemble in Ephesians the 6th chapter. He left nothing uncovered as he described the “whole armor of God. “ The inspired writer emphasized that each piece in the suit of armor must be worn in order to be strong in the Lord and the power of His might (v10).

Ephesians 6:11-13 further explains the urgent need to adorn this all-powerful gear. Without it you are unable to stand against the constant maneuvers (plots, cunning strategies) of the devil. Verse 12 reveals that your fight is against numerous ranks in the actual kingdom of evil! To live any day without first putting on protection leaves you defenseless, unable to accurately identify the true enemy.

The passage confirms that when you are entirely covered in the armor of God you receive the power to withstand in the evil day. Only then, having done all, will you be properly dressed for battle and able to stand, fight, and win (v 13).

Kingdom Couture

The saunter of exquisitely dressed men and women on a red carpet is a familiar feature of award shows and other celebrity events. When the rich and famous pause for photographs and interviews, they are asked, ‘Who are you wearing?” The celebrities flash their fancy finery and give credit to the designers and stylists responsible for their look.

Sons and daughters of the King and His kingdom are arrayed in opulence far beyond material trappings. They are clothed with the very fruit of The Holy Spirit Himself. Wearing robes of righteousness, they walk with feet clad with the preparation of the gospel of peace. They are wrapped in garments woven with praise and salvation.

One strategy of the enemy is to try to trick people of God into forgetting that they are designed by the Divine Father God. He will try to replace their kingdom attire with shame, regret, or mistakes. His goal is for them to see themselves as a caterpillar when, in reality, they have been transformed into a beautiful butterfly through the blood of Jesus.

Embrace the gift of heavenly attire each day of your life. Trust the Word of God that you are covered, even on the most challenging days. Let it be the constant reminder that you are forever adorned with the love of your Heavenly Father. He sees you as His Beloved, a beautiful bride on her wedding day. You never have to flee the presence of God naked and ashamed, as did Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden.

You are redeemed, and with it come rights, privileges, and authority afforded to Kingdom of God dwellers. Dress yourself according to your standing in heavenly places. Live your life with Spirit and Truth covered in garments of grace!

“And be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.” Ephesians 4:23,24

Time to Pray!

 Father God, we trust and believe that You have fearfully and wonderfully made, redeemed, and clothed us in righteous. Thank you for grace beyond measure and for covering us with protection from all evil. In the name of Jesus. Amen

 

 

 


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Day 4 – Revisiting the Kingdom of God Parables

Revisiting the Kingdom of God Parables (Matthew 13)

 Scripture

Matthew 13:10-13 The disciples came to him and asked, “Why do you speak to the people in parables?” He replied, “Because the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. Whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. This is why I speak to them in parables.

Ephesians 1:18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints.

 Isaiah 6:9 Go and tell this people: Keep on hearing but you do not understand; Keep on seeing, but you do not perceive.
 

 

 

Thought for Today

This day, let’s review the marvelous parables spoken by Jesus when He was on earth, particularly those found in Matthew the 13th chapter. The seven parables the Lord taught in this chapter all centered on the Kingdom of God, the recurring topic during our 2024 prayer and fasting season.

Jesus always spoke to crowds in parables to illustrate spiritual truths and lessons in morality. In Matthew 13, he used them to offer insight into the Kingdom of heaven and earth. He knew that no matter how he delivered the lesson the crowd would not understand (see or hear). He reminded His disciples that the prophecy of Isaiah (chapter 6) was being fulfilled. Though they had full use of their physical eyes and ears, their rejection of Jesus as the Messiah blinded their spiritual comprehension.

True believers receive knowledge of even the mysteries of the Kingdom of heaven. A periodic review of these parables during your personal study reveals deeper insight into the kingdom of heaven on earth.

The Sower (Matthew 13:3-13)

Jesus tells a story of a farmer who plants seeds for his crop in different types of soil. Their growth (if any), depended upon where the seeds landed. While some of the seeds yielded a bountiful crop, others produced nothing at all.

In verses 18-23, Jesus taught that a kingdom mindset and vision may be lost if it is not firmly rooted, tribulation arises, or it is smothered by the bondage of riches and the cares of this world. Kingdom seeds sown in healthy ground retain the Word and bear the fruit of the righteousness of God.

The Weeds (Matthew 13:24-30)

The Lord likened the kingdom of heaven to a man who planted good seeds of grain in his field, only to find weeds (tares) among his crop when they sprouted. When asked why, he said that the weeds were planted by an enemy. He declined the offer to pull the weeds out since the wheat could also be removed by mistake. His servants were told to let them grow together and he would separate the two at a later time.

Later, starting in verse 36, Jesus sends the crowd away. His disciples asked him to explain this parable. He explained that the good seeds were the righteous of the kingdom. He revealed the identities of the sower, the field, the tares, and the enemy and what will be their eventual outcome.

 The Mustard Seed (Matthew 13:31,32)

Comparing the kingdom of God to a mustard seed, Jesus pointed out that it is the tiniest of all seeds. However, it grows into a magnificent tree capable of providing shelter for the birds of the air. Can you agree that the earthly kingdom of God, which began when the Lord handpicked a few humble fishermen, has thrived so much that it provides spiritual shelter for crowds that seek the Savior? What part can you play in producing even more growth in the kingdom?

The Yeast/Leaven

Again, Jesus illustrates how much the kingdom on earth can yield from a mere small and inconspicuous beginning. The woman in this parable mixed a bit of yeast into small portions of dough.  The result was that the entire batch was leavened. In other words, it rose higher and was transformed for the better.

 More Kingdom Parables in Matthew 13

To study God’s kingdom is to build a foundation that can never be shaken. It will also help when God uses you to introduce people to the Gospel of Christ. The seven parables spoken by Jesus in just this one chapter cover a variety of topics for edification as well as for teaching. The parables of the hidden treasures and the beautiful pearl express the value found in the Kingdom of God. These men sold everything they had to get what they so greatly desired, just as you seek kingdom values.

You are a kingdom representative of Christ on earth and follow His example. Jesus did not try to entice His listeners by preaching that the kingdom of God was a place of material wealth, perfect health and unlimited peace. He did not force a political agenda to draw followers. His purpose was to offer the Way to enter, and presented Himself as the Door to do so.

 “But blessed are your eyes for they see, and your ears for they hear.” Matthew 13:16

 

Time to Pray!

Father God, we are grateful that you have blessed us with the ability to see and hear the mysteries of the Kingdom. Let us use your teachings to remind us of our citizenship and ways we can serve and increase Your kingdom on earth. In the name of Jesus. Amen


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Day 3 – Life in the Kingdom of Law Abiding Citizens

Life in the Kingdom of Law Abiding Citizens

Scripture

Ephesians 2:19 Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God.

 Deuteronomy 6:1,2 Now this is the commandment, and these are the statutes and judgments which the Lord your God has commanded to teach you…that you may fear the Lord your God to keep all His statutes and commandments…

Romans 13:1 Let every soul be subject to governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.

Titus 3:1 Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work.

Thought for Today

May blessings from heaven fall as pouring rain upon you on this third of 21 days of fasting and prayer. As the days pass, you will notice that the devotionals revolve around a central topic, which is vision and value related to God’s kingdom.

In 2023, the Lord burdened Pastor Joseph Jackson of The Lord’s Community Church to impress upon God’s people the importance of seeking clear vision with a kingdom mindset. With sincere fervor, Pastor Jackson relayed what the Lord revealed In sermons, during bible study, conversations, and even within the fabric of the church anniversary event in the fall of last year. The message is abundantly clear. The future plans God has for the people of His kingdom cannot be executed without a plain, documented vision (Habakkuk 2:2,3).

Your residency in the government of God includes rights and privileges which include access to visualizing His will for your life. As a chosen, “peculiar” person (2 Peter 2:9), you’re called from darkness into His marvelous light. This heavenly luminescence is the source of your ability to perceive, grasp, and “run with” visions and visionaries that line up with the Word of God. Indeed, you have admission to the mind of Christ, which is reflected in your very existence.
 

Citizenship on Earth as it is in Heaven

The correlation between earth and kingdom citizenship is made clear throughout scripture. The Word leaves no question that as inhabitants of earthly territories, we are to respect authority and obey the laws of the land. This diligence does not mean to blindly obey orders or actions contrary to God’s Word. Obedience to God supersedes allegiance to commands which contradict His authority (Acts 5:28:29).

At the same time, the Lord refers to you as a light in this world. Your lifestyle is the reflection of your place as a national of God’s kingdom. Wherever you reside on earth, you are known for your peaceable spirit and good works. You refrain from deliberately or habitually breaking laws or ordinances imposed by the jurisdiction in which you live. You are intimately familiar with the cities and towns, language(s), landmarks and other things which distinguish your locality from other places.

As a citizen of God’s eternal kingdom, you seek ways to show Him gratitude for making a way of entry through the sacrifice of His Son. Each day you seek a deeper relationship with Him as your Heavenly Father, your God and King! With a heart of surrender, you do your best to obey Him. When you fall, you trust His Word you are forgiven upon confession and repentance.

No matter what we possess as we reside on the planet earth, there is no blessing so grand, so secure, than life in the Kingdom of God. Jesus told his disciples that one day, the earth will pass away (Matthew 24:35). All praise to God that you reside in a kingdom that has no end!

“Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and Your dominion endures throughout all generations:” Psalm 145:13
 

Time to Pray!

Father God, thank You for acceptance and permanent residency in Your kingdom. Give to us the desire, discipline, and determination to walk worthy of what you have given us. In the name of Jesus. Amen

 


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Day 2 – God’s Kingdom and His Rightousness: A Perfect Pair

Scripture

Matthew 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Colossians 1:13 He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves (NIV).

1 Corinthians 6:9(a) Do you not know that the unrighteousness will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived.



Thought for Today

The words Jesus spoke in Matthew 6:33 are found in the most intricate and impactful sermons of all time, known as The Sermon on the Mount, or Sermon on the Plain. Portions of the discourse, and details of what led up

 to the event, are recorded in the 6th chapter of the Gospel of Luke. Three chapters in the book of Matthew (5, 6, and 7) offer a more in-depth account of this sermon.

Some Bible scholars believe it may have taken the better part of the day for Jesus to teach this sermon. It contains a plethora of astounding thoughts and instructions which flowed directly from the passionate heart of the Savior. That one address contains worlds of knowledge and insight. Yet the King of Kings summed up the key to understanding His lessons and the means to execute them with a nineteen-word sentence; “seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness…”

Sermon Highlights
The fifth chapter of Matthew begins as Jesus, seated with his disciples, declared blessings to the multitude that gathered. Among the crowd were people poor in spirit, impoverished, and grieving. He also shared why the meek, the merciful, peacemakers, and the pure in heart are likewise blessed of God. Further, the Savior plainly stated the manner of conduct, thinking, and service which His believers must follow.

Matthew 6 reveals Jesus’ firm teaching on the importance of discretion and humility when helping others. He warned of the dangers of haughty and insincere prayer and set the example how to pray. The Lord also taught the crowed the importance of forgiveness, service, fasting, and steadfast loyalty to God above anything else.

He continued by addressing concerns about lack of material provision. The Lord expressed how anxiety and worry about issues of life such as food, clothing, and shelter distract from the things of God.  The message is as relevant today as it was to the people listening to the Lord on that day thousands of years ago. At times, the issues of life may threaten the ability to focus on kingdom matters.

Yet, Jesus was, and always is, aware of what we need. His words in Matthew 6:33 were intentional and timeless. A closer look at them reveals His Deity, wisdom and love throughout the ages!

God’s Kingdom and His Righteousness are Linked Together
The Lord made it clear that “all things will be added” if you seek first the kingdom of God. A kingdom is a territory or domain ruled by a dominant authority. On earth today, there are roughly 225 domains, countries, and territories that fit into this category. However, from God’s perspective only two kingdoms exist, His eternal kingdom and the kingdom of darkness ruled by your adversary the devil. The Lord declared the first action to receive everything you will ever need is to seek His kingdom.

Following, Jesus uses the conjunction “and” to convey that more is required. He says to also seek God’s righteousness. To seek God’s righteous means to commit to constantly learning and loving the heart and mind of God. It includes allowing the Holy Spirit to fill you as He works in you what is “pleasing in His eyes” (Hebrews 13:21).

Because unrepentant sin will not enter the kingdom, to seek first the kingdom and His righteousness also includes acknowledging, confessing, and repenting from sin. Yes, it’s a continual work to strive to reflect Him as you are renewed each day.

Seeking first God’s kingdom goes hand-in-hand with seeking His righteousness. The two cannot be separated. Without a sincere love of the righteousness of God, sin is present, which prevents access to His kingdom (1 Corinthians 6:9-11). Likewise, it is impossible to desire to live a righteous, virtuous life without knowing the blessings found within the kingdom of God.

The words of Jesus were a comfort to the anxious crowd as they listened intently to His words. When you feel overwhelmed, remind yourself that He is also speaking to you this day.  As a citizen of a kingdom of which there will be no end, you lack no good thing according to the will of your Father God (Luke 1:33, Psalm 34, 10, 1 John 5:14).

Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock and it will be opened to you.  Matthew 7:7

 

Prayer

Father God, thank you for the privilege to look for your kingdom and righteousness together because of the sacrifice of your Son. Without His blood, we have no hope of entering Your domain because we in ourselves are sinful and unworthy. We cannot praise and honor you enough; we worship you as the Eternal King. In the name of Jesus. Amen


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