HIDDEN SECRET KINGDOM
Kingdom Kids devotions authorize Jesus’ LORDship over our lives
John 10:10: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full[est].”
Twelve-year-old Cassie mailed out invites to an end-of-summer party. The invitation admits one person into the roller skating rink on July 31st. Cassie’s mom wrapped gifts that Cassie chose for winners of several games that she hoped would delight her party friends.
She chose the prizes carefully because she loves seeing her friends smile.
Cassie’s friends are sure to arrive at the skating rink wearing smiles, eager to have fun. Christians are eager for heaven that’s promised to us one day, too. We’re also sure to arrive in heaven wearing smiles. We’re excited to see Jesus face-to-face. Our heavenly Father’s presence is sure to bring us smiles.
Meanwhile, for those who believe in Jesus as God’s Son, our heavenly Father is wrapping gifts. While on earth waiting for our ultimate reward of eternal life in heaven, Believers-in-Christ “work out salvation with fear and trembling.” (The lesson linked below wraps up what the opening Scripture teases.)
“Working out salvation” is Believers’ job. Jesus commands His followers to be baptized. While underwater, Believers “die to self” (Luke 9:23). Jesus is our Savior because He willingly died as a perfect sacrifice for the Father’s forgiveness of our sins. Holding our breaths, we copy Jesus’ burial. Rising out of the baptismal water represents Believers’ rising as a new creature (2 Corinthians 5:17).
God’s indwelling Spirit shapes us—transforming us into mini Christ-followers. Salvation is not supposed to be Believers’ end game. Salvation is the beginning of our new lives under the Lordship of Jesus.
Our Father wraps carefully-chosen gifts of abundant lives to reward us while we wait for heaven. Having life to the fullest means that Jesus’ power, authority, and blessings come to whomever willingly obeys His Spirit’s transforming process. God’s secret kingdom is revealed to Christians, yet is hidden from everyone who doesn’t believe in Jesus.
Receiving God’s-kingdom lives to the fullest of daily needs and transforming Believers into Christlikeness is extraordinary grace.
The extent of this grace is equal to the extent of our commitment and dedication to Him.
Take Home Nugget
Commitment and dedication to God show up when Jesus rules our lives. God’s hidden kingdom reigns secretly inside Believers’ hearts. “Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven” prays billions of Christians worldwide urging God’s hidden kingdom to emerge from the shadows.
Holy Father, as Lord and King, empower me to commit and dedicate myself to You 100%. Bless me with Your abundant life which Jesus beckons me to accept. I pray this in His name, Amen.
J.D. Griffith
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Latest Christmas eBook by J.D. Griffith:
This eBook shows Mary’s adventure traveling to Bethlehem right before Jesus’ birth. This Biblical fantasy weaves supernatural delight into facts surrounding His birth.
Here’s another eBook by J.D. Griffith:
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