Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 31

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 30

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 29

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 28

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 27

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 26

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 25

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 24

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 23

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 22

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 21

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 20

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 19

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 18

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 17

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 16

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 15

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 14

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 13

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 12

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 11

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 10

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 9

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 8

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 7

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 6

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 5

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 4

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 3

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 2

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - December 1

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 30

A voice of one calling: “In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord ; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Isaiah 40:3

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to reflect on the words of the prophets of old as we approach another Christmas season. We remember the joyful expectations of God's chosen people as they waited for the Messiah to be born.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are expectant today as we wait for our King to return. The joyful anticipation of deliverance from the troubles and trials of this world allows up to persevere even when we want to give up.

Let us prepare the way for the Lord in our hearts.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 29

Though my father and mother forsake me the Lord will receive me. Psalm 27:10

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that loss is a part of our journey in this world. We live in a world where change is inevitable. We usually do not have control over the circumstances of our lives and death, divorce, goodbye and loss become our companions at times. This is the time for us to remember that our trust and hope should always be in the Lord.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are confident that in the midst of loss and tears our King will always be with us. He promises to never leave us or ever let us go. He carries us close to his heart. How could he ever forget about us!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 28

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 27

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 26

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 25

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 24

You asked, ‘Who is this that obscures my plans without knowledge?’ Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know. Job 42:3

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that there will always be things about God that we will never understand.  This knowledge is actually what builds our faith and trust. We must always know who we are in comparison to God. When we know that we were created by an omniscient God with omnipotent power who holds all things in his hands, who has control of the universe, who has an eternal purpose for all things, who cares about us personally and who loves us inspite of our failings, the only words that come to mind are the words of Job - things too wonderful for us to know; things we do not understand.

Let us gratefully meditate on God's wonderful attributes today.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 23

Then Job replied to the Lord :  “I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted. Job 42:1-2

Citizens of the New Kingdom are privileged people who have the unique opportunity to be in a personal relationship with the Almighty God of the universe.  The story of Job shows clearly the loving relationship between the Sovereign King and his servant Job. Job could not see all that was happening behind the scenes and he had his own perspectives, influenced by his beliefs and the beliefs his friends, but when it became clear that he was wrong to question God's purpose and sovereignty - Job repented and God blessed him abundantly.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to be humble before the King and acknowledge the words of Job, 'I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted.' Do not allow the doubts of others to cause you to question God's goodness and purpose for your life.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 22

Then Job answered the Lord :  “I am unworthy—how can I reply to you? I put my hand over my mouth. Job 40:3-4

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to follow Job's example when we realize that we have fallen into sin. Instead of making excuses, blaming others and blaming God for not being fair we need to cover our mouths and acknowledge our unworthiness before God.

Citizens of the New Kingdom should be like the tax collector in the story that Jesus told about attitudes in prayer. The Pharisee was very boastful about how righteous he was, even thanking God that he was not like the tax collector beside him. The tax collector, on the other hand bowed his head, beat his breast and pleaded with God for mercy. King Jesus approved of the tax collector's approach before God.

May we recognize our unworthiness and acknowledge that without King Jesus we cannot stand before God. He is not impressed with our boasting about how good we think we are.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 21

The Lord said to Job:  “Will the one who contends with the Almighty correct him? Let him who accuses God answer him!” Job 40:1-2

Citizens of the New Kingdom are in awe of the sovereignty, majesty and awesome power of the Almighty God. When we meditate on the eternal attributes of our King and we see the true condition of our sinful hearts we humbly bow before him. Pride has no place in the lives of believers.
Condemning and judging others can only truly be done by King Jesus because when we condemn others we are also condemning ourselves. The Apostle Paul warns us to take heed when we think we are standing strong because that is when it is easiest for us to fall.

Let us not be tempted to contend and accuse the Almighty God today.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 20

From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. Acts 17:26

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that all nations of the earth came from one man. We believe that we were designed and created by our God and King. He made us to inhabit the whole earth. He knows where we live. We live, move and breathe in the environment of God.

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that it is only a matter of time for scientists to catch up with knowledge that we have always known and accepted about our Creator. Bill Nye, the science guy wrote recently,  'There really is for humankind no such thing as race. There's different tribes but not different races. We're all one species'. This is the same truth that the Apostle Paul presented to to the philosophers of Athens almost 2000 years ago.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 19

“Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation? Tell me, if you understand. Job 38:4

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that God's patience for mankind will run out one day. He told his servant Noah long ago, 'my Spirit will not always contend with men'. We read in Revelation that the cup of his wrath is filling up and one day it will be poured out on the earth. Citizens of the earth will have no answer to the Creator when he asks, ' where were you when I laid the earth's foundation?'

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that God always knows the answers to his questions. God knew that Adam and Eve were hiding after they disobeyed his instructions but he asked them, ' Where were you?'
When our King asks a question to which he knows the answer we can always be certain that we will be held accountable for our actions.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 18

Brace yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer me. Job 38:3

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to be humble before our King. The one character trait he will always rebuke is pride. When we think that we know what is best for us and forget that we are his servants; forget that we are to seek his will and that we should bring him glory he will get our attention.

Citizens of the New Kingdom see evidence of God in our lives daily. We wake up in the morning because of his providence. As we look around us we see his hand in creation and we see his blessings in our lives and in the lives of our families and friends.

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that we need to acknowledge God's sovereignty and his ownership of our lives. Our King loves us too much to allow us to wander too far away from him. He will do whatever it takes to bring us back into fellowship with him even if we have to answer hard questions.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 17

'Who is this that obscures my plans with words without knowledge? Job 38:2

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that a mature relationship with our King means that he will ask us hard questions not because he does not know the answers but because he wants us to be honest before him.

Citizens of the New Kingdom may be guilty of thinking we know God's plans for our lives and when things are not falling into place like we know they should, we get a little upset at God. We remind God of the blessings we should be getting from him not realizing that what we thought we knew may not have been his plans for our lives.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to meditate on the Scriptures and allow the Holy Spirit to show us what God's plans are for our lives even if they do not fit with what we thought his plans were.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 16

Then the Lord spoke to Job out of the storm. He said:... Job 38:1

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that God will speak out of the storms in our lives. We may have been praying and pleading to hear his voice; we may have asked for answers; we asked 'why?' we asked 'how long?' and all we hear is silence.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to be confident in our King. His silence does not mean he has given up on his children, forgotten us or too busy to help us. Storms have a purpose in our lives even if it is only to teach us to wait patiently for our King.

Citizens of the New Kingdom can be confident that our trust in our God and King will never be in vain. His purpose is being fulfilled in our lives everyday even when we think that he is silent.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 15

We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Romans 8:22

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that the choice made in the Garden of Eden in the beginning of creation has lasting consequences. We are still suffering today from the choice that was made. God warned the first couple that disobedience to his word would result in death. They chose death over life and death has touched every single aspect of creation on every level. Many people do not believe in the Genesis account of creation and that is a personal choice but they cannot argue with the dire consequences that have affected their lives too. 'Thou shalt surely die!' was the warning and every day we deal with death.

Citizens of the New Kingdom have hope that one day everything will be made new because death will be no more. King Jesus conquered death and we are confident that a day is coming when we will never deal with the consequences of death again.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 14

The Lord is in his holy temple; let all the earth be silent before him. Habakkuk 2:20

Citizens of the New Kingdom do not have the answer when acts of terror rock the earth. We do not know why babies are being hurt; children are being killed; seniors are being abused and people suffer horrible destruction by the hands of other human beings. We heart-wrenchingly turn our heads towards heaven and ask our King not WHY but HOW LONG; How long will these things keep happening?

Citizens of the New Kingdom remember the agonizing Friday when King Jesus was nailed to a cross by Roman soldiers after being rejected by his own people. Believers at that time turned their heads towards heaven and asked 'how could this have happened? We thought he was the hope of Israel.'

Citizens of the New Kingdom can proclaim today as we look in horror on the evil deeds of men, 'The Lord is in his holy temple; we will wait on our King'. We are confident that our King, in his perfect time, will pour out his wrath and take vengeance on his enemies. We know he can because he proved his power 2000 years ago when he walked out of a sealed tomb one Sunday morning.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 13

Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all.  Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name. 1 Chronicles 29:12-13

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that Our God is personally involve in the lives of his citizens. He gives good gifts to his children as our needs may be. He is the ruler of all things and distributes wealth and honor as he decides. He raises up leaders for his purpose. He has the power and the ability to give us strength.

Citizens of the New Kingdom serve a King who is fully capable of doing anything he pleases. The universe awaits his every command. How humble we should be as we reflect on the attributes of our God. This mighty and infinite God loves 'me'.

Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 12

Yours, Lord , is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, Lord , is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. 1 Chronicles 29:11

Citizens of the New Kingdom praise the Lord with thanksgiving as we meditate on his greatness. His greatness is seen in the splendor and beauty of the heavens and the earth. We may take for granted the majesty and glory of our God at times but his majestic glory will break through in our hearts as we meditate on who he really is and we can't help but exalt him as Creator and King.

Citizens of the New Kingdom read the words of King David and we join with him in proclaiming, 'Yours Lord is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all.' Our King created the heavens and the earth and we humbly bow before him.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 11

With God we will gain the victory, and he will trample down our enemies. Psalm 108:13

Citizens of the New Kingdom are confident of the victory because our God and King is in charge of the battle. We know that he will prevail; his purpose will be fulfilled. Wars are inevitable in our human experience but victory is always assured as we allow our King to lead.

Citizens of the New Kingdom have thankful hearts knowing that all our enemies will be conquered. As we reflect on the many battles that have been fought in this world since time began we lift our hearts in thanksgiving for the confidence that we can have in our King's masterplan. Although we may never know the reasons why there are such atrocities in war, we have to believe that good will conquer in the end and we will continue to proclaim, 'The battle is the Lord's'!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 10

For great is your love, higher than the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies. Psalm 108:4

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to meditate on the greatness of the King's love. He loves us continually even when we are not aware of him. He always have us in mind as he arranges the circumstances of our lives. We may not understand the reason we go through storms in this life but if we accept his sovereign love we will be victorious as we surrender to his will and our faith will be strengthened.

Citizens of the New Kingdom serve a sovereign King who has a plan for this world that is far beyond any finite understanding. Our King is eternal; he is the creator of time so he is above and outside of time; he is omnipotent, omnipresent, omniscient; he is the source of all light, life and love. When we meditate on his eternal attributes, the only response we have is thanksgiving and praise!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 9

My heart, O God, is steadfast; I will sing and make music with all my soul. Psalm 108:1

Citizens of the New Kingdom praise God with hearts that have no doubts about who He is. Our King is the Creator of the universe; he made everything that every telescope and every satellite can see. He made the things that we can't see. Our King is the One and Only God. He has no equal. We praise our God and King with steadfast hearts!

Citizens of the New Kingdom  praise God with music from their souls. It doesn't  matter if we can't carry a tune, our souls have the perfect melody and harmony as we sing to our King. We praise God with all our souls. We do not share our soul-felt praise with anyone else but our King.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are filled with thanksgiving in their souls as they give King Jesus  all their praise!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 8

But he lifted the needy out of their affliction and increased their families like flocks. Psalm 107:41

Citizens of the New Kingdom are confident that our King has compassion on those who are in need. He does not turn away from us when we are suffering from the consequences of our own sinful actions. He loves us inspite of our poor judgment and choices and he lovingly removes our affliction as he forgives.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to give thanks to the King for his continuous provision for his children. We can never drift so far away from our God that he cannot rescue us and bring us back into his fold. King Jesus watches over us like a Shepherd taking care of his flock.

Let us thank our King for his unfailing love and forgiveness!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 7

Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. Psalm 107:19

Citizens of the New Kingdom can always thank the King for delivering us from our many troubles and distress. We do not lose hope even when situations seem hopeless and impossible. We have a God who specializes in impossible situations and take great joy in delivering his people.

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that King Jesus hears our every prayer and he sees our every circumstance. In Exodus 2: 24-25 we read. ..  The Israelites groaned in their slavery and cried out, ....God heard their groaning.... God looked on the Israelites and was concerned about them. He prepared his servant Moses to lead them out of Egypt.

Let us be thankful to the Lord as we watch him deliver us from our troubles and distress.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 6

Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind, for he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things. Psalm 107:8-9

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love. When we look around and listen to unbelievers confidently proclaim that there is no God our hearts are filled with sadness and compassion for them. They are unable to see and acknowledge the unfailing love of the God and King of the universe. They have no one to thank for all the wonderful things that happen on this earth, the breathtaking views, the near misses of asteroids and natural disasters. They have no one to thank for the good things in their lives.

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that Our God and King is in control and he is personally involved in our lives. We are confident of our King's protection and we know that he is the one who satisfies and brings good things into our lives.

Citizens of the New Kingdom cannot help but give thanks to the King!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 5

Give thanks to the Lord , for he is good; his love endures forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story— those he redeemed from the hand of the foe, those he gathered from the lands, from east and west, from north and south. Psalm 107:1-3

Citizens of the New Kingdom are called to tell the story. We have been redeemed and we rejoice in the blessings of our King. In our joy we cannot keep silent, we must proclaim the goodness of the Lord.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are a grateful people. We give thanks to the Lord always. We know that our very existence is a gift from him and we acknowledge this gift with thanksgiving from a grateful heart. We are passionate about our King. We know that he is good and that his love endures forever. We share our joy with others!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 4

Let this be written for a future generation, that a people not yet created may praise the Lord : “The Lord looked down from his sanctuary on high, from heaven he viewed the earth, to hear the groans of the prisoners and release those condemned to death.” Psalm 102:18-20

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to know that throughout history faith in God has always bring encouragement to suffering people. The Psalmist, as he struggled with physical and mental anguish, would not give in to despair but proclaimed that people not yet created will know God's goodness.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to read the words of Scripture and know that God's Word endures forever. We are blessed as we hold on to a God who never changes but always has compassion on suffering people. Our struggles and trials may seem to go on forever but our King is true to his word and will deliver as he has done throughout  history.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 3

 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. Romans 15:4

Citizens of the New Kingdom find comfort and strength in the words of Scripture. We read about the struggles of God's people throughout the ages and realize that they were just like us, trying to please God as they lived in a world that was not always welcoming.

Citizens of the New Kingdom receive great encouragement as we read about God's deliverance of his people time and time again. We know that our God does not change. He is still protecting and delivering his people today.

Let us enjoy the blessings of our King today!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 2

“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls.  When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it. Matthew 13:45-46 

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that we have found the pearl of great value when we accepted King Jesus' invitation to become citizens of his New Kingdom. 

Citizens of the New Kingdom, like the man in the parable, know that nothing in this world is greater than eternal life and fellowship with King Jesus forever. There is nothing that we would not give up, no place that we would not go or no person that we would not forgive if that is what it takes to attain the pearl of great value. The pearl of great value according to the parable is becoming a citizen of the Kingdom of Heaven.

The rich young ruler in Luke 18 did not recognize the pearl of great value when he walked away from following Jesus. The question is, 'Am I willing to give up everything for the pearl of great value?'

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - November 1

My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.  They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. John 17:15-16 

Citizens of the New Kingdom have confidence in the love of King Jesus. His last thoughts were on his followers as he prepared for his painful, torturous death. Our King knew that his citizens have to live in this world and he knew that the world would not treat us kindly. His prayer was for us, his citizens, for our protection from the evil one.

King Jesus affirmed that when we become citizens of the New Kingdom - we are called out of this world. We now have a spiritual DNA that makes us desire the things of God and not the things of this world and as we continue to follow our King we become more and more like him. We are not of this world even as he was not of this world.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 31

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to be transformed from following after the world's system, beliefs and philosophies to knowing and doing the things of GOD. 

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged not to conform to the things of the world because we no longer belong to the world. Conforming to the world will take our focus off spiritual things and it will become increasingly difficult to know and follow after God's good, perfect and pleasing will.

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that doing God's good, perfect and pleasing will is the only way to achieve lasting fulfillment of our spiritual desires. 

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 30

Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. 1 John 2:15

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to seek and love King Jesus and the New Kingdom to which we now belong. We seek daily to love the things of GOD more than the things in this world.

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that whenever we take our eyes off our King and what he desires for us we will start seeking the things of the world. When we try to fulfill our spiritual desires with things from this world we are left feeling even more empty because the things of this world are foreign to our spiritual nature and cannot bring lasting fulfillment.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 29

If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. John 15:19 

Citizens of the New Kingdom do not belong to the world's system. As we live in this world, the temptation is for us to assimilate into what we see around us because our human nature seeks to belong. We are encouraged to focus on living and assimilating into the New Kingdom for we now belong to King Jesus. 

King Jesus chose his citizens out of this world's system. Our focus is now on our King and what he wants us to do. The world's system and philosophies can no longer bring fulfillment and satisfaction to citizens of the New Kingdom because it is foreign to our spiritual nature.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 28

This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 1 John 5:14

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to approach King Jesus with confidence as he invites us to ask him for anything. We have the guarantee that if we pray according to his will he will hear and grant our requests. If our prayers are not answered we are not praying according to his will for us.

Citizens of the New Kingdom have the promises of King Jesus as recorded in the words of Scripture. His promises to his children will always be his will for his citizens.  He promised to be with us always; he promised that we will overcome the world as long as we are in him; he promised that we will not be as abandoned orphans because his Holy Presence will always be with us; He promised eternal life; he promised the forgiveness of sins; he promised to prepare a place for us so we will always be with him; he promised rest for our burdened days and his promises go on... The secret to getting our prayers answered is praying according to the WILL of God.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 27

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1:17 

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that our heavenly Father will only give to his citizens good and perfect gifts. All circumstances and situations that our King allows into our lives will be pronounced good and perfect, not usually when we are going through it, but when it is completed and we see the finished product. 

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that our very existence is to bring glory to our King. When we intentionally seek his glory we can accept hurt, betrayal, pain, suffering as temporary and incomplete, because in the end, we will see that the purpose and goal of what we endured and perceived as negative, were actually working to bring goodness and perfection to our lives.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 26

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10

Citizens of the New Kingdom have the wonderful potential of living an abundant life. A life overflowing with joy, happiness, contentment, optimism, excitement, etc... We have the possibility of enjoying our lives to the fullest. King Jesus came to bring this life to his citizens. It does not depend on the circumstances of our physical lives but it has the potential to change us from within. This abundant life flows outward gradually changing our outlook on the situations and circumstances of our earthly lives.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are blessed with fulfilled lives as we accept this wonderful gift of abundant life that our King offers.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 25

... Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink.  Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”  By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. ..John 7:37-39

Citizens of the New Kingdom have the Holy Spirit flowing like living waters through us. Living waters is not 'still' water; it is not stagnant water; it is a flowing, living stream. The Holy Spirit is alive in the believer and as he flows in us and through us, he makes the dry, parched ground of our lives fertile and full of life.

King Jesus invites all who are thirsty to go to him and drink from this living water. We drink from this living water when we believe and accept our King. This belief gives us a new birth into his New Kingdom and it allows the Holy Spirit to flow like living waters in and through us.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 24

Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? Psalm 139:7

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that there will be times when we may get discouraged and our faith may be shaken. We may not feel as close to our King like we want to be. Sometimes we may want to hide from the searching eyes of our King.

One reason Citizens of the New Kingdom may want to flee from the presence of our loving King is because we don't feel that we are deserving of forgiveness. What we need to realize is that our King has already forgiven all our sins. There is absolutely no reason for us to ever be ashamed to be in the presence of our loving King.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 23

You have searched me, Lord , and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. Psalm 139:1-2 

Citizens of the New Kingdom have a personal relationship with the King. King Jesus knows everything about us; He sees us completely; nothing about us is hidden from him. He knows where we are at all times. He can read our minds, hearts and motivations. He knows and understands why we do what we do.

Citizens of the New Kingdom have a King who knows everything about his children and yet loves us enough to forgive all our sins and grant us eternal life.

We stand amazed at this great love!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 22

I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. John 10:28

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that there is safety in the presence of the King. We have security, protection and eternal life as we live in fellowship with our King.

Citizens of the New Kingdom have no need to worry about abandonment from our King. King Jesus promises that he will never leave us as orphans; he will never forsake his children; he will never allow us to wander away from the fold if he cannot bring us back. He serves notice to anyone who thinks they can take us away from him.

Let us live in the freedom of our security today!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 21

My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. John 10:27

Citizens of the New Kingdom are like sheep having our King as the good shepherd. The King seeks intimacy with his citizens as he knows each of us individually.

Citizens of the New Kingdom listen to the voice of the King. We intentionally choose to listen to the words and instructions from our King. We know that we can trust our King because he loves us and gave up his life for us as a good shepherd does for his sheep.

Citizens of the New Kingdom follow the King. Listening without obeying and following is like the sheep that keeps wandering away from the safety and protection of the shepherd. The instructions the King gives to us are for our protection and safety. When we wander away from him he does everything he needs to do to bring us back to the safety of his love and protection.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 20

“I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— John 10:14

Citizens of the New Kingdom have a King who calls himself a shepherd because of the relationship he wants to have with his children. The role of the shepherd is to protect and care for his sheep. He ensures their safety by always being prepared to defend the sheep as lions or wolves seek them for meals. A good shepherd will stand his ground even when the odds are against him, choosing to give up his own life if it means the safety of his flock.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged by the words of the King when he speaks of intimacy with his citizens. As a good shepherd he knows his sheep. He knows their tendencies, their preferences, likes and dislikes, what brings joy, what may cause sadness or anxieties, etc.

Citizens of the New Kingdom also seek to know their King. It should not be a one sided relationship. We seek to know King Jesus. We know what he likes, how he wants us to live, to love, to forgive, to fellowship with him. He wants us to be able to sit at his feet and share our lives with him, our daily troubles, our desires. He loves us when we are good, bad or indifferent. Intimacy allows us to go to our King even when we are afraid. There is no fear in intimate, complete love.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 19

“Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces. Matthew 7:6 

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to have discernment as we interact with others in this world. What we have to offer is a priceless treasure! We need to know who will be appreciative of the good news we are sharing or who will use our words against us and cause problems. In another conversation, King Jesus advised his followers that if people in a village were not ready to accept them they should shake the very dust of the village streets off their feet.

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that sometimes people need to be prepared in order to accept what is being offered. If the good news of the gospel is like a seed to be planted the quality and preparation of the soil makes all the difference in the harvest later.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 18

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged by the final words of our King as he said goodbye to his followers about 2000 years ago.  He did not give them the assurance that living in this world would be an easy thing to do but he prepared them as much as he could for what they would face.

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that the secret to going THROUGH trials, problems and troubles is abiding in King Jesus. When we are holding on to our King we can have peace in the midst of the tribulations. King Jesus knew we would have troubles but he cheers us up by letting us know he overcame the world. He didn't overcome only the troubles of the world, he was victorious over the entire world. 

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 17

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. Isaiah 43:2 

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that as long as we are living on this side of eternity there will be times of trouble and hardships. Life will not always turn out the way we want it to be. Our entire world is living with the consequences of sin.

King Jesus promises his citizens that he will always be with them. His promise echoes the words that were given to the Prophet Isaiah as God proclaimed his love for his people. He didn't tell them they would have an easy life. He promised to be there as they go THROUGH the hard times. We don't go around our troubles or fly above our problems. We go through them holding on to our King.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 16

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” Jeremiah 1:5 

Citizens of the New Kingdom are known by our Creator from eternity to eternity. Our existence may have started at conception but our Creator God already had big plans for us. Our physical birth was not an accident and our spiritual birth was definitely not an accident.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are set apart and appointed to serve King Jesus. He has a unique task for each one of us. We are completely at peace when we are doing the work that our King has called us to do.

Let us serve King Jesus today!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 15

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. Psalm 139:13

Citizens of the New Kingdom are individually created, formed, put together by God, our Father and Creator. We are not just one of the crowd; we are each different from everyone else; we are unique. King Jesus sees each of us as individuals.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are personally responsible to faithfully do the work that each of us are called to do. There is a specific work for each citizen to do in our own individual and unique way. The Holy Spirit gives us what we need in order to serve our King to the best of our abilities.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to serve King Jesus as individual servants, using the gifts and talents he gives to us. We should never envy the gifts of others because our gifts are custom made for us.  Our King knows exactly what we need and what we can do.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 14

Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—as her great love has shown. But whoever has been forgiven little loves little.” Luke 7:47 

 Citizens of the New Kingdom know that we have been forgiven much. When we take time to reflect on the holiness of God we see how undeserving we really are of our King's love and forgiveness. 

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that even if they were born into the New Kingdom when they were children it does not mean that they were forgiven little. The Psalmist David wrote, 'Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me.' Psalm 51:5. God's wrath was what we truly deserved; rejection and destruction by a holy righteous God would be fair. Our King chose to love us instead and forgave all our sins - past, present and future. We are all forgiven much indeed!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 13

Who are you to judge someone else’s servant? To their own master, servants stand or fall. And they will stand, for the Lord is able to make them stand. Romans 14:4 

Citizens of the New Kingdom are servants of the King. We have one master, King Jesus. He is the perfect, righteous King and he is the only one who has the ability and the authority to judge his servants. 

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to work on our own daily struggles so that we can be better servants. If we are busy working on ourselves we will not have time to see the splinters in the lives of our brothers and sisters. We won't be judging but we will be encouraging each other.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 12

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged.  For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Matthew 7:1-2 

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to have compassion for others; we are encouraged to love others, forgive others etc. We are admonished to never judge others. 

Citizens of the New Kingdom live in an imperfect world and we are still being changed and transformed into God's masterpiece. Judging each other because of an action or behavior would be premature because we are not seeing the finished product. We, ourselves are still not where we should be.

Citizens of the New Kingdom carry the sign,  'under construction. ..work in progress'

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 11

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:9 

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that we are God's special possession. It is a privilege and an honor to be held in such affection by our God. It is awesome to meditate on these words written by the beloved apostle, Peter, whom many of us can identify with as he displayed his human frailties constantly.

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that privileges also bring responsibilities. We are a chosen people, a royal priesthood and a holy nation for the express purpose of serving our King. We are encouraged to declare his praise; we should be boasting about him; we are witnesses of all the wonderful blessings he has bestowed on our lives and we are the only people who can declare the truth about King Jesus because we know him personally.

Let us take our status of being God's special possession seriously!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 10

...To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen. Revelation 1: 5b-6

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that we are loved by King Jesus. He loved us before we were even born. The Plan of Redemption was formulated when the foundation of the earth was laid.

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that King Jesus freed us from our sins by shedding his blood on Calvary for us. We are no longer slaves to sinful desires but we are free to live righteous lives in our King. 

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that we are not only born into the Kingdom of King Jesus but we are also priests before God. We do not need a special envoy to approach the throne of God for us. As priests we can go to God, our Father, directly. 

To him be glory and power for ever and ever. Amen!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 9

John, To the seven churches in the province of Asia: Grace and peace to you from him who is, and who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits before his throne, and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. Revelation 1:4-5a

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that there are three distinct persons in the Trinity. John, the beloved apostle in writing to the seven churches in Asia sent greetings from the One who is, was and is to come; he sent greetings from the seven spirits before his throne and he sent greetings from King Jesus. 

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that King Jesus is the faithful witness who revealed to us who God is. King Jesus was the firstborn from the dead, walking out of the tomb on Resurrection Sunday. King Jesus is above every kingdom and every ruler on this earth.

Let us worship our King as the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 8

“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.” Revelation 1:8

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that contrary to the image portrayed by skeptics and unbelievers that the Lord God is sovereign and omnipotent. His status of Almighty God affords him the power to do exactly as he pleases. He does not need man's permission to do anything. He is God!

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that it is impossible to understand the all encompassing magnitude of the nature of God. Questions of 'why does God allow bad things to happen' show our finite and incomplete knowledge of who God is. A better thought may be 'how do I fit in the sovereign plan of the Almighty God.'

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 7

“Look, he is coming with the clouds,”  and “every eye will see him, even those who pierced him”; and all peoples on earth “will mourn because of him.”  So shall it be! Amen. Revelation 1:7

Citizens of the New Kingdom live in anticipation of the physical return of King Jesus. The Scriptures proclaim that our King is returning to this earth and we wait for his return, not by doing nothing, but by living the abundant life that he promised his followers. 

Citizens of the New Kingdom are privileged people. We have the blessings of God, salvation from the wrath of God, eternal life and the assurance that King Jesus is returning to take us to our eternal home.

So shall it be! Amen

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 6

“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour. Matthew 25:13

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that we should not become tired of obeying our King. No matter how hard it gets sometimes or how frustrating our situations may become we need to keep watch because King Jesus is coming back.

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that when the storms of this life are hitting us from every angle our King can be trusted to keep us safe. We will get tired, we will feel exhausted, we may even have to take a break and rest for awhile but we always keep a vigilant and watchful heart. Our King is in control and he is coming back for his children

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 5

“ ‘No,’ he answered, ‘because while you are pulling the weeds, you may uproot the wheat with them.  Let both grow together until the harvest..." Matthew 13:29-30a

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that as long as we have breath in our bodies and we are still alive in this world, we remain a work in progress. King Jesus will not call us home until our work on earth is done. 

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that only our King can read the motivations of our hearts. He alone knows who truly is wheat and who truly are weeds. Sometimes, we prematurely judge others and we cause more harm than good in the end.

Let us be patient with our fellow citizens as we each seek to eliminate the weeds from our own hearts.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 4

So you also when you have been told everything that you are supposed to do, should say, 'we are unworthy servants, we have only done our duty'. Luke 17:10

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that we are servants of King Jesus. We are not called to part time duty, we should always be serving our King. 

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that if it weren't for the sacrifice of King Jesus we would have no hope of redemption or eternal life. It is out of eternal gratitude that we serve, not for rewards we think we deserve. Our attitude should always be, 'Is there anything else that I can do for you Lord? '

Let us strive to be worthy servants of our King!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 3

But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. Matthew 6:6 

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that we have a Father. We are sons and daughters of our heavenly Father. We are not orphans to be pitied by anyone. We have a great heritage. King Jesus encouraged us to have a relationship with our Father. 

Citizens of the New Kingdom communicate with our Father through prayer. We talked to God believing that he exists and he knows us as individuals. We share our needs with him not because he doesn't know them but because he enjoys the relationship that he has with us where we can freely tell him everything that is happening in our lives.

Our Father who art in heaven, hollowed be thy name!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 2

Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.” John 6:29

Citizens of the New Kingdom are taught to believe in King Jesus. We believe that King Jesus is the divine Son of God. We believe that he became man to teach mankind how to be reconciled to God.

Citizens of the New Kingdom believe that King Jesus' shed blood is the only remedy for our forgiveness and righteousness before God. We are justified before God because the divine Son of God died in our place and paid the penalty for our sins.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son that whoever believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - October 1

Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?”  “No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”
John 6:10 -11

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to embrace King Jesus' teaching on non-condemnation of ourselves and others when we are caught in sin. As long as we live on this earth our human carnal nature and our new spiritual nature battle each other for prominence in our lives. This means that sinning is inevitable when we choose our human nature above our spiritual nature.

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that King Jesus has made provision for our sins. Not only does he forgives but he also does not condemn any of his children.

Let us live in freedom of grace and non-condemnation today!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 30

“But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’    “I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Luke 18:13-14 

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that pride has no place in our hearts.  King Jesus taught that being humble before God is the way to be justified. Time and time again he reprimanded the Pharisees and teachers of the law for being self righteous. Only when we admit that we are sinners will we be able to accept the love and forgiveness of our King.

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that if we trust in any other means for escaping the wrath of God we will not be accepted by our King. Doing good work instead of putting faith in King Jesus' finished work on Calvary is having pride in myself. As we follow the example of the tax collector and cry out, ' God have mercy on me a sinner', God will forgive and welcome us into his New Kingdom.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 29

Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?”  Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times. Matthew 18:21-22 

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that an important command of King Jesus is forgiveness. It does not matter what the offense is or how often we have been wronged by our brothers and sisters the command is always the same - Forgive. 

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to extend the same forgiveness we have received from our King to others. We have been completely forgiven for every offense against a righteous and Holy God. We have been rescued from the coming wrath of God's judgment, a punishment that we rightly deserved. How can we not forgive others when their offenses are so minor compared to what we have done to our Lord and King?

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 28

Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’  This is the first and greatest commandment.  And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’  All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:37-40 

Citizens of the New Kingdom seek to love God firstly and completely. King Jesus was asked what was the greatest commandment.  Not only did he talked about loving God he also made sure his listeners knew that the responsibility of loving our neighbors is also a command of God.

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that we cannot show love to God and treat others with hatred and contempt. Our King encourages us to make things right with our brothers and sisters before we offer gifts to God. 

Let us strive daily to love God and show love to others.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 27

Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. I do not want to send them away hungry, or they may collapse on the way.” Matthew 15:32

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that King Jesus taught his disciples compassion by his words and his example. He saw deep into the hearts of the people following him and he knew what they needed. He saw the thirst and hunger in their souls but he was also acutely aware of their physical needs too. 

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to follow the example of our King. As important as it is to be concerned about people's souls we should never overlook their physical needs. As disciples of our King let us always do our part to serve others. 

May we be obedient to King Jesus teachings on compassion.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 26

Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.  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. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 28:18-20 

Citizens of the New Kingdom have been given a commission from the King. King Jesus proclaimed the commission by stating his authority. He has all authority in heaven and on earth.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are commissioned to teach obedience to everything that King Jesus commanded. Not what the church commands, not what the preachers on television command, not what learned scholars command - ONLY what King Jesus commands. 

Let us study God's Word to discover exactly what it is that our King taught and commanded!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 25

This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone. Titus 3:8 

Citizens of the New Kingdom have freedom in the assurance of eternal life.  When our minds are not enslaved by stress and the guilt of unconfessed sins we can live the abundant life in the freedom of God's grace.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to keep on trusting in God and doing his will. Our thoughts, words and deeds will be controlled by the Holy Spirit and we will seek to do what King Jesus calls 'good'. As we love God firstly and love others like we love ourselves we continue to strive for excellence and doing what is beneficial to others.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 24

so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. Titus 3:7

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that it is only by God's grace that are we justified. Justification allows us to be granted righteous status in King Jesus. We do not ever have to fear the wrath of God because we have been made righteous in our King. We cannot stand before God because of any good that we have done. We can only appear before God because of what King Jesus did for us at Calvary.

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that being justified by our King's finished work at Calvary allows us to become heirs of God's salvation and rescued from the coming wrath and punishment of sin. As we participate in this world's temporary activities we have within us the source of eternal life which gives us hope of living forever.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 23

But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior...
Titus 3:5-6

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that it's the kindness and mercy of King Jesus, not anything we have done which initiated our salvation.

Citizens of the New Kingdom enjoy the two fold aspect of salvation - the second birth at the acknowledgement of King Jesus dying for our sins and washing them away by his shed blood and the also the renewal of our lives by and through the Holy Spirit living in us.

May we enjoy the wonderful gift of Salvation today!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 22

At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. Titus 3:3 

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that we are called to live differently than we used to live. Before we became citizens of the New Kingdom we were enslaved by our own desires. We did not have the willpower to choose to live like King Jesus because the Holy Spirit was not present in our lives.

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that it is only by the grace of God that we can we live a different life in King Jesus. We know what it is to be foolish,  disobedient, hated and hating each other. We had to be born into the New Kingdom to be able to live a Spirit-filled life. 

May we be understanding of the struggles of others as we remember the lives we used to live.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 21

(Remind the people) to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone. Titus 3:2

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to speak truthfully and kindly about others. Slander and lies can hurt the reputation of our brothers and sisters and also make our witness ineffective. As we live in this world we will fail at times and forgiveness and restoration is what is needed not criticism and slander.

Citizens of the New Kingdom seek to live in peace with everyone. We should be known as peaceful, considerate and gentle people. Others will want to be in our company as they are drawn to the love of King Jesus seen in our lives.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 20

Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, Titus 3:1

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that this present world is not our final destination. The kingdom of King Jesus is not part of this world's system. This world has it's authority and government. Since we live in this world we abide under its authority.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are obedient people. We do not seek confrontation with this world's authority unless it is in direct contrast with God's authority.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to always be ready to do good so that people around us will be drawn to God's love.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 19

Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Colossians 3:13 

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to give each other the benefit of the doubt. Even when all evidence shows that we are right we must not insist on being right but must show love to the one who wronged us.

Citizens of the New Kingdom seek to forgive each other and not to hold grudges nor seek revenge. The forgiveness we show to others cannot ever measure up to the forgiveness King Jesus gave to us.

Since we are God's chosen, holy and dearly loved people let us live in our King's forgiveness and may we choose to forgive those who wrong us.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 18

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12

Citizens of the New Kingdom are privileged people because we are God's chosen, holy and dearly loved children. However,  this privilege brings responsibilities. Our spiritual standing before God is chosen, holy and loved so we must clothe ourselves with the evidence of who we are.

Citizens of the New Kingdom show themselves to be compassionate people. We are moved to action by the pain of others. We seek to be kind people always looking for ways to serve. We are not boastful but humble. We strive to be gentle and have great patience with others.

May our lives show the evidence of being God's chosen, holy and dearly loved people.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 17

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12 

Citizens of the New Kingdom are God's chosen people. We know that King Jesus chose us to be his children when he formed the world AND we chose him to be our King when we were spiritually born into the New Kingdom. Our redemption started with him - NOT because we are better than non-citizens but because we are chosen.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are God's holy people. We know this holiness is not earned through our exemplary behavior but King Jesus took away all our sins and clothe us with his holiness.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are dearly loved by God. We do not have to worry about being rejected ever again. King Jesus promises that he is 'for' us not 'against' us. We are the most privileged of citizens because we are God's chosen, holy and dearly loved children.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 16

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that only by the Holy Spirit can we be like King Jesus and follow his example of forgiving.

Citizens of the New Kingdom seek to be kind to all the people we interact with each day even when we want to respond in anger for what they are doing. We are called to be compassionate and forgiving even when we don't think they deserve it for all the hurt they are inflicting on others.

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that we have been forgiven for all our sins. This forgiveness came at the cost of King Jesus dying on a cross for us. Our sins hurt the sinless Son of God and as we received forgiveness from our King we are called to extend forgiveness to others.

Let us be kind, compassionate and forgiving today.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 15

Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Ephesians 4:31

Citizens of the New Kingdom seek to live in peace with others in this world. We turn away from the anger, conflicts and turmoil that seem to exist in every step we take. Words are said with deliberate intent to hurt and cause resentment which leads to bitterness. The forgiveness that the world offers comes with a price. This is the world we are living in.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are called to live a different way of life. We are called to forgive freely so that we will not accumulate bitterness in our hearts, we will avoid rage and anger, we will stay away from name-callings and slander, we will seek to remove envy and malicious intent from our lives.

Citizens of the New Kingdom seek to live in love, peace, patience and looking after the welfare of others. We follow the example of King Jesus in forgiving all who wrong us.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 14

And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Ephesians 4:30

Citizens of the New Kingdom enjoy the fellowship of the Holy Spirit as he lives in us. He teaches us how to live godly lives. He makes the Word of God come alive in our minds. He gives us direction to find the right path. The Holy Spirit is for us and not against us. He is the very Presence of the Father and King Jesus in our lives.

Citizens of the New Kingdom seek to live in harmony with the Holy Spirit. We listen to his still small voice as he gently lead us. We do not reject him; we do not ignore him; we do not deliberately walk away from him because we want to keep sweet fellowship with him. Walking in step with the Holy Spirit brings us peace. Grieving the Holy Spirit adds turmoil to our lives.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 13

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. Ephesians 4:29

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to give up any attitude, habits and behaviors that bring conflict and discouragement to others. Instead we should build others up. If our attitude, words and actions bring hurt to others and we continue to act in this way we are not surrendering to the leading of the Holy Spirit. 

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that the goal of the Spirit is to bring us to maturity in King Jesus. If we are using our words to hurt others we must seek to be helpful instead and use our words to benefit and not to hurt.

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that wholesome behavior will not happen on its own. We must submit to the Holy Spirit if we want lasting change. King Jesus has given us everything we need to succeed and he patiently and lovingly wait for us to submit to the Holy Spirit.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 12

Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need. Ephesians 4:28 

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that when our hearts are changing and we are growing into maturity through the Holy Spirit our behaviors will change also. When we get rid of our selfish desires we need to add to our lives more desirable behaviors. Not only for ourselves but also to encourage others.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to work to provide for the needs of himself and his family.  This principle was true for first century believers and it is still true today. The goal is to give up our selfish attitude and then by submitting to the Holy Spirit develop a giving attitude.

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 11

...and do not give the devil a foothold. Ephesians 4:27

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that all it takes for the devil to break us down is a foothold. He exploits our weaknesses no matter how small and finds a way into our minds to wreck our spiritual walk.

Citizens of the New Kingdom are admonished to guard our minds so that we are able to withstand demonic attacks. He uses any and all tactics. By ourselves, without the Holy Spirit, we cannot stand up to the Devil. If he gets control of our minds he wins the battle, but by the grace of God, he cannot win the war. King Jesus already defeated him at Calvary!

Let us guard our minds, give the Holy Spirit control and never give the devil a foothold!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 10

“In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry,
 Ephesians 4:26

Citizens of the New Kingdom are encouraged to put aside anger that can lead to sin. King Jesus said that anger can lead to murder. Cain, the first son of Adam and Eve proved his point when he became so angry at his brother Abel and ended up killing him.

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that the path where the the Holy Spirit leads is away from anger. When we put off anger we must fill the space with love and forgiveness.

Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry!

Citizens Of The New Kingdom - September 9

Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. Ephesians 4:25 

Citizens of the New Kingdom are taught by the Holy Spirit to live honestly and truthfully with each other in this world. We must put off falsehood which includes, lies, gossiping, manipulation, hypocrisy, being false witnesses, etc. Then we must fill the space up with speaking truth. This must be a conscious effort. It will not just happen. It will take training and discipline. 

Citizens of the New Kingdom know that when we fail to speak truth and live honestly with each other we are not condemned. We are encouraged to continue and to seek restoration because our King loves us. He has a storehouse filled with forgiveness for us, bought by his precious blood shed on Calvary's cross. The end goal is to be like God in righteousness and holiness and this will only be fully completed when we see him face to face.