I am a citizen of the Kingdom of God, are you? This kingdom has no national boundaries, does not extend its interests with guns, and has no earthly throne. There is an army for this Kingdom, but it is armed with love and invades with quiet service, not conquering force. Yet, it is a powerful influence that causes amazing transformation where its loyal subjects make the will of the King a priority choice in their daily lives. Jesus stood before Pilate, accused by the religious leaders of being a king, intent on stirring up a rebellion against Rome. When questioned, He made it clear that He was uninterested in taking Caesar's throne. "My kingdom is not of this world. ... But now my kingdom is from another place." (John 18:36, NIV) Earlier in His preaching He had declared the higher authority which He claimed. "You are from below; I am from above. You belong to this world; I do not." (John 8:23, NLT)
The seat of the Kingdom of God is in Heaven. The rule of the King is exerted in our hearts and minds, brought about by transformation of our values, our understanding of life's purpose and meaning. Does that mean the kingdom has no interest in earthly matters? Not at all! When we become subjects of this King by faith, when the His Holy Spirit takes up residence in us, everything about us changes - our manner of speaking, our interaction with others, our way of doing business, our care for Creation! The true subject in the Heavenly Kingdom is not compelled to comply to law backed by punishment. He does the will of his King because he loves Him. The meaning of his life is no longer defined around the basic human need for food, shelter, and relationship. He finds his purpose in loving God and is therefore drawn to a nobler life. The qualities that come to be the mark of the citizens of the Kingdom are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Gal. 5.22)
Loyal subjects of the Kingdom find themselves in the care of their Lord, given an eternal home. "You are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household." (Ephesians 2:19, NIV) "Our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ." (Philippians 3:20, NIV)
Disciple, have you become pre-occupied with life apart from your heavenly citizenship?
Are you gripped by fear or worry?
Renew your love for the King and live in His promise.
"So don't worry about these things, saying, 'What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?' These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need."
(Matthew 6:31-33, NLT)
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Majesty, worship His majesty.
Unto Jesus be all glory,
Honor and praise.
Majesty, kingdom authority
Flow from His throne
Unto His own,
His anthem raise.
So exalt, lift up on high
The name of Jesus.
Magnify, come glorify
Christ Jesus, the King.
Majesty, worship His majesty.
Jesus who died, now glorified,
King of all kings.
Majesty
Jack Hayford © 1981 Rocksmith Music (Mandina/Rocksmith Music [c/o Trust Music Management, Inc.])CCLI License No. 810055
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