(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
It is here. 2024 is upon us. For some, there’s excitement for the Summer Olympics. For others, there’s a high level of anticipation for the political elections, or those who just want that part of the year to be over with. Still others, are looking forward to something else this coming year. While it’s true we can enjoy the presence of God anywhere, we must be careful not to put our hope and trust in people or things outside the kingdom of God.
Setting aside of worldly thoughts and instead focusing on what it looks like to live in the kingdom of God is a common theme throughout the New Testament. In the early portion of Colossians 3, Paul hits on this theme when he writes in verse 3, “…your real life is hidden with Christ in God.”
Translating the original Greek into English isn’t always easy, and this is one verse in which it’s difficult to get the meaning of the text just right. The word life in this verse is about your current, physical life. Paul isn’t writing about the life you will have in eternity, but the life you’re currently living. A life which finds it’s identity in the kingdom of God. Not in any personal achievements or political victories, but a life in His kingdom.
READING & PRAYERS:
MATTHEW 6:33, ROMANS 14:17, MATTHEW 6:9-10 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: In what ways does the mindset that you are living in the kingdom of God impact the way you see the world around you — everything which is outside the kingdom of God — differently?
PRACTICE: Throughout the day, pay close attention to the messages you see and hear throughout the day which fall outside the kingdom of God. How many messages every day do you see or hear that fall outside of God’s kingdom?
Take a Step: Practice listening to God by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice a day.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, living in a culture which focuses on everything but life in Your Kingdom is difficult. Continue to help me see the world for what it is, and You and Your Kingdom for it is. May I grow to live in a state of complete peace, knowing You are on the throne. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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