Devotions from James Smith book, The Good and Beautiful Life.
When we think of the Good News of the kingdom, we may think of it summarized in a single sentence, “Repent for the kingdom of heaven has come near”. But the kingdom of God is more. It is an interactive life with God. It is like Jesus saying to us, “Change the way you have been thinking- a life of intimacy and interaction with God is now in your midst.” The Bible is full of passages about the kingdom of God and Jesus spoke about it over 100 times in the gospels. He said we must enter it through humility, trust and a willingness to begin working on aspects of our soul – like integrity, gentleness, respect, mercy etc. ( Matt. 5:20 says our righteousness must exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees who did everything for show!) We also need to become like a child in dependence, trust, innocence, etc. ( Mark 10:15 says to receive the kingdom as a child) We must also be born of water and the Spirit and surrender our lives to the leading of the Spirit. ( John 3:5) Isn’t it wonderful that we are invited into His kingdom of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. ( Romans 14:17). Wow! Let us not think this is all in the future but begins now.
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