Living By Faith: Out of the World - Monday Morning Summer Devotion Series - Week 3
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“My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting so that I would not be handed over to the Jews; but as it is, My kingdom is not of this realm.”
John 18: 35-36
Christ’s kingdom is spiritually active in the world today, and one day He will return to physically reign on the earth (Rev. 11:15; 20:6). But until then, His Kingdom exists in the hearts of believers. It is hard to not get wrapped up into worrying about our nation and the fear of destruction, but we need to understand this is not ours to worry about. This is not our kingdom.
We should, instead, look to our heavenly kingdom and our heavenly Father. God has everything under control. He is sovereign. His knowledge, however, is hidden from us. It is beyond our capacity to grasp the why, how, and when of God’s plan. But there are some things He does want us to know: “He works all things according to His will” (Ephesians 1:11). And “He works all things together for good to those that love God and are called according to His purpose" (Romans 8:28).
We do not need to worry in times of trouble. We pray for those He has put in authority, and we follow his specific instructions: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20). By simply following His instructions, we can actively be doing instead of worrying and being fearful.
Heavenly Father, help us to remember, daily, that you are sovereign and you work all things for the good of those who love you. Guide us as we share that love with those around us, spreading love and peace, instead of worry and anger. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Bob Prue (Rosebud Sioux)
Lawrence, Kansas