“So, do not be afraid, little flock, for it gives the Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.” (Luke 12:32)
What do we think of when we hear the word, “kingdom?”
Some of us will immediately think of Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. It enthralls millions of visitors each year with parades, fantasy, music, fireworks, and imaginative attractions like Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and the Jungle Cruise. They call it, “the happiest place on earth,” but it’s only good for as long as your ticket lasts.
Some of us might think of a country, such as the United Kingdom, home of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip, and Prince William and Princess Kate. They have crowns and castles, tiaras and titles. Royalty undoubtedly has some pretty sweet perks, but to be royal in the UK, one must marry a royal or be born to royal parents.
Maybe, just maybe, we think of the Kingdom more amazing than any other—God’s Kingdom. Righteousness, peace, and joy overflow in God’s Kingdom (Romans 14:17). The Kingdom brings healing (Luke 10:9) and breaks demonic strongholds (Luke 11:20). Those who focus on the Kingdom find all their needs are supplied (Matthew 6:33).
In God’s Kingdom, we don’t have to be afraid in times of trouble because our Father offers us his presence, provision, and protection. We don’t have to fear sickness because healing flows in the Kingdom. We don’t have to fear death because citizens of the Kingdom have eternal life.
Unlike the Magic Kingdom, the Kingdom of God doesn’t require a ticket. And unlike the UK, we don’t have to be born a royal to be a citizen of God’s Kingdom. When we repented of our sins and accepted Jesus, God adopted us as his own. “God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure” (Ephesians 1:5). Out of his love for us, God adopted us. We became children of the King and a citizen of the Kingdom, with all the privileges that come along with citizenship.
So, where’s our focus today? Are we troubled by our problems? Are we worried, stressed, or afraid of what we see happening in our world? Have we forgotten who we are…and whose we are?
“The Lord has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all” (Psalm 103:19).
It’s time to lift up our heads and look beyond our circumstances. We’re the chosen and cherished children of the King, and he rules over all. We’re dearly loved. Our heavenly Father rejoices to give us the Kingdom.
Dear God, it is a privilege to be able to call you, “Father.” I am thankful to be your child, and to be a citizen of your Kingdom. In every situation, every circumstance, and every part of my journey, I will remember who I am. Let the righteousness, peace, joy, and power of the Kingdom live in my heart. In Jesus’s name, amen.
What is different in your life because you are a child of God? Leave a comment in the “Reply” section below.
Family Worship Center Devotionals 