The Kingdom of God – Life as a Devoted Citizen of the Great Kingdom

As believers, we are not just waiting for the day when we will enter the Kingdom of God in heaven; we are called to live as citizens of God's Kingdom here on earth. Jesus came to establish His Kingdom in the hearts of those who follow Him, and He teaches us to pray in Matthew 6:10 (KJV), “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.” This call invites us to reflect on God's reign in every aspect of our lives and to represent His Kingdom to the world.

Living as citizens of God's Kingdom means embracing a new identity, way of thinking, and mission. It is about aligning our values, actions, and attitudes with Jesus' teachings and allowing Him to rule in our hearts. This week, we will explore what living in the Kingdom of God on earth means and how we can embody Kingdom principles in our everyday lives.

Why Living as a Citizen of God’s Kingdom Matters

The Kingdom of God is not just a distant reality in heaven; it is present here and now through the lives of those who follow Christ. Jesus said in Luke 17:21 (KJV), “The kingdom of God is within you.” This means that as Christians, we carry the values, authority, and presence of God's Kingdom in our hearts, and we are called to live in a way that reflects His reign.

Living as citizens of God's Kingdom transforms how we view the world, how we treat others, and how we approach life's challenges. It shifts our priorities from worldly concerns to eternal ones and teaches us to seek God's will above our own. It also means that we are part of something much greater than ourselves—a global, spiritual family united in Christ with a shared purpose of advancing God's Kingdom on earth.

How to Live as a Citizen of God’s Kingdom

1. Submit to Christ’s Rule
   Living in the Kingdom of God begins with surrendering your life to Christ's authority. As King, Jesus calls us to obey His teachings and to allow Him to guide our lives. In Matthew 6:33 (KJV), Jesus instructs us, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”
   Application: Ask yourself if you truly submit to Christ's rule in every area of your life. Are there parts of your life where you are holding back? Make a conscious decision to submit to His authority and trust Him to lead you.

2. Reflect Kingdom Values
   The Kingdom of God operates on values often countercultural to the world. Jesus teaches us to love our enemies, to serve rather than seek power, and to give rather than store up treasures for ourselves. These values are seen in the Beatitudes in Matthew 5:3-12 (KJV), where Jesus blesses the meek, the merciful, and the peacemakers.
   Application: Reflect on how you can embody Kingdom values daily. Are you showing love, humility, and generosity to those around you? Look for opportunities to live out these values, especially in challenging situations.

3. Be a Light in the World
   As citizens of God's Kingdom, we are called to be a light in the darkness. Jesus says in Matthew 5:14 (KJV), “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid.” This means that our lives should reflect God's love, truth, and grace in a way that draws others to Him.
   Application: Consider how your life reflects the light of Christ to others. Are you living in a way that points people to the Kingdom of God? This week, take time to share your faith with someone or show kindness that reflects God’s love.

4. Advance God’s Kingdom
   Being a citizen of God's Kingdom also means participating in its advancement. Jesus gave us the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 (KJV), saying, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you.”
   Application: Ask God to show you how you can contribute to advancing His Kingdom on earth. This could be through sharing the gospel, serving in your community, or supporting missions and ministries that spread God’s Word.

5. Live with Hope in God's Kingdom
   The Kingdom of God is both present and future. While we live as Kingdom citizens now, we also look forward to the day Jesus returns and fully establishes His Kingdom on earth. Revelation 21:1-4 (KJV) describes the beauty of this future hope: a new heaven, a new earth, and the end of all pain and sorrow.
   Application: Let the hope of God’s eternal Kingdom fill you with peace and purpose. When life feels overwhelming, remind yourself of the bigger picture—that you are part of God’s unshakable Kingdom that will endure forever.

Action Steps for You

1. Seek God's Kingdom First: This week, deliberate on seeking God's Kingdom in every aspect of your life. Begin each day with prayer, asking God to guide your actions and help you prioritize His will above your own.

2. Practice Kingdom Values: Choose one Kingdom value (such as humility, love, or generosity) and make it a focus for the week. Intentionally look for ways to live out this value in your interactions with others.

3. Share Your Faith: Be bold in sharing your faith with someone this week. Whether through words, actions, or prayer, find a way to point someone to the hope and truth of God's Kingdom.

4. Engage in Kingdom Work: Find a way to actively participate in advancing God's Kingdom on earth. This could be volunteering, serving at your church, or supporting a ministry that spreads the gospel.

Reflection Questions

• What does living as a citizen of God's Kingdom on earth mean to you?
• Are there areas in your life where you struggle to submit to Christ's rule? How can you surrender those areas to Him?
• How can you be more intentional about reflecting Kingdom values in your daily life?
• How does the hope of God's eternal Kingdom influence your current life?

Challenge for the Week

This week, challenge yourself to live fully as a citizen of God’s Kingdom. Make a conscious effort to submit to Christ's rule, reflect Kingdom values, and seek opportunities to advance His Kingdom. Whether in small or large ways, let your actions, words, and attitudes reflect the truth that you belong to the eternal Kingdom of God.

Conclusion

Living as a citizen of God's earthly Kingdom is a profound and powerful calling. It invites us to embrace a new identity shaped by Christ's teachings and empowered by His love. As we submit to His rule, reflect His values, and advance His Kingdom, we participate in a mission far greater than ourselves. Let this week's challenge encourage you to live with the boldness and peace that comes from knowing you are part of God's eternal Kingdom, both now and forever. Seek His Kingdom first in all you do, and trust that your life will shine as a light, pointing others to the hope and glory of Christ’s reign.

The Kingdom of God – Life as a Devoted Citizen of the Great Kingdom.

Proverbs 31:25 - "Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come."