Kingdom Tension Part 2 Devotionals
Day 1: A New Creation in Christ
Devotional When we accept Christ, something remarkable happens – we become entirely new creations. It’s not just a minor adjustment or a slight improvement; it’s a complete transformation. Like a caterpillar emerging as a butterfly, our old self gives way to something beautifully different. This transformation isn’t something we accomplish on our own – it’s a divine work of God. He takes what was broken and makes it whole, what was lost and makes it found. This new creation isn’t just for our benefit; it’s part of God’s larger plan to restore and reconcile the world to Himself.
Bible Verse
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17
Reflection Question
In what specific ways have you noticed God transforming you since you began your journey with Christ?
Quote He loves you and he’s for you. He’s proud of you. Sees you in the perfection of his son.
Prayer
Father, thank you for making me new in Christ. Help me embrace this new identity and live fully in the transformation you’ve given me. Show me how to walk in this newness of life today. Amen.
Day 2: Partners in God’s Kingdom
Devotional God could have chosen to work alone in establishing His kingdom on Earth, but instead, He chose to partner with us. This partnership isn’t reserved for a select few – it’s extended to every believer. We’re not just casual observers or occasional participants; we’re active partners in spreading God’s kingdom. This partnership involves sharing His love, demonstrating His power, and bringing His presence into every situation we encounter. When we truly grasp this reality, it transforms how we view our daily lives and interactions.
Bible Verse
“Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.'” – Matthew 28:18
Reflection Question
How might your daily routine look different if you viewed yourself as God’s active partner in His kingdom work?
Quote The church is the instrument of the kingdom of God, the rule and reign of God, the authority of God. God partners with us, the church that’s us. Not just the organization or us. He partners with all of us to make a difference on the planet.
Prayer
Lord, thank you for choosing to partner with me in Your kingdom work. Help me see the opportunities You provide each day to make a difference in Your name. Amen.
Day 3: Living in the Now and Not Yet
Devotional As believers, we live in a unique space between what God has already done and what He will do in the future. This tension between the ‘now’ and ‘not yet’ isn’t a limitation – it’s an opportunity. We get to experience God’s kingdom power today while anticipating its full revelation in the future. This perspective helps us maintain hope when circumstances are difficult and celebrate the glimpses of God’s kingdom we see in the present.
Bible Verse
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” – Acts 1:8
Reflection Question
How does understanding this tension between the ‘now’ and ‘not yet’ affect your approach to challenges in your life?
Quote We live in this tension as we talk about all the time, between the now and the not yet, because Jesus has come, he’s inaugurated the kingdom, and when he returns, he’ll consummate the kingdom.
Prayer
Holy Spirit, help me live faithfully in this tension between what is and what will be. Give me eyes to see Your kingdom at work today while maintaining hope for tomorrow. Amen.
Day 4: Access to Kingdom Power
Devotional Through Christ, we have been given unprecedented access to God’s kingdom power. This isn’t about personal gain or glory – it’s about having everything we need to fulfill God’s mission. The same power that raised Christ from the dead lives in us, enabling us to participate in God’s work of transformation in the world. This access isn’t earned; it’s freely given to all who follow Jesus.
Bible Verse
“Jesus replied, ‘Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven.'” – Matthew 16:17
Reflection Question
What kingdom work might God be calling you to that seems impossible without His power?
Quote You have access to the now and the not yet of the kingdom. You have access by Holy Spirit to everything that God needs us to have to fulfill the mission that he’s given us.
Prayer
Father, thank you for giving me access to Your kingdom power. Help me step out in faith, trusting in Your strength rather than my own abilities. Amen.
Day 5: Being the Church
Devotional Being part of the church isn’t just about attending services or participating in programs. It’s about identity – who we are, not just what we do. As members of Christ’s body, we carry His presence wherever we go. Whether at work, home, or in our community, we represent God’s kingdom. This understanding transforms every interaction into an opportunity for ministry and every location into a potential place of encounter with God.
Bible Verse
“Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. 53 And they stayed continually at the temple, praising God.” – Luke 24:52-53
Reflection Question
How might viewing church as your identity rather than an activity change your approach to daily life?
Quote The church isn’t something you do just when you show up. The church is who we are.
Prayer
Lord, help me embrace my identity as part of Your church. Show me how to represent Your kingdom well in every area of my life. Amen.
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