Yesterday’s sermon was really eye opening. We were taught how Kingdom principles are the opposite of the kingdoms of this world.
Each kingdom has its set of norms, rules and protocol. The world expects you to be brash, selfish, domineering, self minded and always skewing things at all costs to one’s favor in order to prosper.
However, the good book tells us
Rev 11:15b NKJV
“The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!”
Meaning that we need to apply Kingdom principles in our areas of operation, influence, affluence and even areas of struggle because He is above all and has conquered all. Live & reign in that assurance.
Kingdom principles state;
- Give to receive
- Mourn with those who are mourning
- You are blessed when you’re poor in spirit
- Be humble to be exalted
- Die to self to live in Christ
- Love your enemy & do not revenge
- Turn the other cheek
What should you expect when you apply these principles?
- Ridicule from those around you
- Misconception
- More attacks & challenges to test your commitment
We are not in the business of defending ourselves but God’s message. Therefore, misconception and ridicule is a prayer item to submit to God, not to whine about.
Let’s focus on attacks & challenges. I look at them as growth spurts moving in slow gear.
Growth spurts are for a specific reason i.e. definite outcome in the human body physically measured by increase in weight, height, growth of beard, voice breaking etc. Science makes it easier for us by identifying what comes with a specific age. If majority of the growth signs are missed, one is supposed to immediately go for medical review & advice.
The reverse is true in God’s kingdom i.e. milestones are indicated and moreso how to overcome them. However, there’s no pointer on when to expect them, just a continuous replay of the tune consult with God even when not in doubt.
Two definite ways of knowing that you are growing or have grown are; First, how you respond to situations. Second, the nature of the challenges that you are facing.
Situations and opportunities are nothing new. However, an eye for eye, as we know it is not a good sign of growth. So is revenge, hatred, backstabbing. manipulation, lust & mischief. Rejection by friends because of your decision to live in Christ creates 2 opportunities i.e. to create new friends and also share the newfound joy and peace with former friends. You see, we all believe but not everyone has made that decision yet hence such situations.
If the graph on your growth chart is on the upward trend, you will notice that the nature of challenges also change from mere physical to one that touches the core of your faith. For example, being broke is nothing new. However, always going broke at specific opportunity junctions is something to consider. Why? Of course you can borrow and pay up later. But then, other simpler opportunities such as dinners, holidays etc somehow are always catered for. I find that weird and what is more weird is that when you’re broke and a believer, the challenges are strangely multiple and magnified. That’s a complex thought.
How do you respond?
- Borrow? But scripture says you are a lender not a borrower.
- Accept defeat and become a cry baby? Again, scripture tells you God shall supply all my needs according to His riches in glory.
- Or go back to what the world does and rescind your decision to believe in God. Funnily, scripture still tells you, come let us reason together.
How will you respond?
Growth in the physical body does not allow for repeat of the milestone. A milestone achievement can be delayed but if you miss it, the opportunity is gone.
Growth milestones in the Kingdom allow for repeats. You will repeat a lesson until you understand how to respond to it and moreso how to move forward.
Back to my earlier example, I’m reminded of the parable of the talents. Whom much is given, more is expected. Of your profit, do not squander it in celebration but use it as capital for the next investment opportunity & pay back what is owed. Be faithful.
The good book also tells us with all your getting, get understanding Proverbs 4:7. Understand the season and the lesson. Automatically, you will know how to respond to that situation.
It is no easy task. Some lessons will repeat themselves but with a different expected outcome. Get understanding. Do not get familiar because you will put your guard down and eventually end up doubting the core of your faith.
My recent favorite song is King of My Heart which summarises what total depence during a growth spurt is all about.
