Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.”
John 18:36 (NIV)
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Today’s Devotional
In John 18:36, Jesus speaks about the nature of His kingdom during His trial before Pilate. He clarifies that His kingdom is not of this world, distinguishing it from earthly kingdoms and political powers. Jesus’ kingdom is a spiritual kingdom, focused on establishing God’s rule in the hearts and lives of people, rather than on physical or material domination.
Understanding this distinction is crucial for believers. As followers of Christ, we should prioritize the values of His kingdom, such as love, mercy, justice, and righteousness, over worldly pursuits and power struggles. We are called to live as citizens of heaven, representing God’s kingdom here on earth.
Time to reflect
To apply the message of John 18:36 to our lives, consider the following points:
- Recognize that Jesus’ kingdom is not of this world and is distinguished from earthly kingdoms and political powers.
- Understand that Jesus’ kingdom is a spiritual kingdom, focused on establishing God’s rule in the hearts and lives of people.
- Prioritize the values of Jesus’ kingdom, such as love, mercy, justice, and righteousness, over worldly pursuits and power struggles.
- Live as citizens of heaven, representing God’s kingdom here on earth.
- Seek to advance the cause of Christ and His kingdom through your words, actions, and choices.
Prayer Of The Day
Lord Jesus, thank You for reminding us that Your kingdom is not of this world. Help us to understand the true nature of Your kingdom as a spiritual realm focused on establishing Your rule in our hearts and lives. Teach us to prioritize the values of Your kingdom, such as love, mercy, justice, and righteousness, over worldly pursuits and power struggles.
Empower us to live as citizens of heaven, representing Your kingdom here on earth. May we continually seek to advance the cause of Christ and Your kingdom through our words, actions, and choices. In Your name, we pray. Amen.
Strengthening Faith
To apply the message of John 18:36 to your life, take these action steps:
- Reflect on the nature of Jesus’ kingdom and how it differs from the kingdoms of this world.
- Assess the values and priorities in your life, considering if they align with the values of Jesus’ kingdom.
- Pray for wisdom and guidance as you seek to live as a citizen of heaven, representing God’s kingdom on earth.
- Look for opportunities to advance the cause of Christ and His kingdom through acts of love, mercy, justice, and righteousness.
- Share the message of Jesus’ kingdom with others, helping them to understand the spiritual nature of His rule.
Today Wisdom
Jesus’ kingdom is not of this world, and as His followers, we are called to prioritize the values of His kingdom over worldly pursuits. Living as citizens of heaven, let us represent God’s kingdom on earth and seek to advance the cause of Christ through our words, actions, and choices.
