Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Luke 12:32
Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus talked about the kingdom of God though He was not trying to become an earthly monarch. What then is the kingdom of God? The kingdom of God is the rule of an eternal, sovereign Lord over all the universes. God’s kingdom is both physical and spiritual. Daniel said that “the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed” (Daniel 2:44). “This represents the literal rule of Christ on the earth during the millennium. The kingdom of God also represents a spiritual rule over the hearts and lives of those who willingly submit to God’s authority.”
A kingdom perspective is a Holy Spirit-led and Christ-centered way of looking at and living in the world. It begins with a renewed mind focused on pleasing God by doing God’s kingdom work. Such a mind prioritizes whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable. If there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, it thinks about these things (Philippians 4:8).
Those with a kingdom perspective seek to discern God’s actions in every situation. They are ministry focused as they seek to honor the great commission of Jesus Christ. A kingdom perspective is hopeful and encouraging. It is love-driven and prioritizes transformation over condemnation.
Because prayer is the primary language of the kingdom of God, a kingdom perspective is sustained through prayer. People with a kingdom perspective instinctively pray about every and remembers the words of Paul who reminds us “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).
A kingdom perspective is predicated upon total surrender to the Lordship of Christ. It is informed by scripture. Thus, it is vital to persistently study the word of God so we can be divinely inspired in our thoughts and actions. The kingdom perspective sees the world as a mission field.
From a kingdom perspective, there is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for we are all one in Christ Jesus (Galatians 3:28). The kingdom perspective looks for harmony through justice and equality with evenhandedness. It is not ethnocentric. Rather, it values the uniqueness of every individual regardless of race or ethnicity.
The kingdom perspective prioritizes righteousness over religion. It is patient and kind; does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth (1 Corinthians 13:4-8).
The goal of every believer should be to develop a kingdom perspective so they can begin to see the world as Jesus sees the world. Then they will be able to forgive their trespasses, pray for those who revile and persecute them, feed the hungry, and help the needy to the glory of God.
Questions for Personal Reflection
What is your perspective about what God is doing in the world?
How is your perspective impacting your kingdom’s work?
Prayer- Blessed Lord, please help me to see the world as you do. Remove within me any malicious thought or ungodly desire that may lead me to sin. Remind me to seek first your kingdom and righteousness over everything else for the glory of your name.
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