When we choose to live in God’s Kingdom, His Word should begin to influence our everyday lives. It is more than going to church every week or knowing what the Bible says. It is reflected in everything we do; from the way we treat others to the decisions we make and the thoughts we allow to remain in our minds.
Being part of God’s Kingdom means adapting our lives to His principles. So, what can we do to make sure our lives are aligned with God’s Word?
“If you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” (Matthew 6:14)
Forgiveness can be difficult, especially when we have been deeply hurt. But, Jesus made it clear that forgiveness is not something we should postpone until we feel ready.
Choosing to forgive is a decision to obey God’s Word. While we may not be able to change what happened, we can choose not to allow resentment and bitterness to control our hearts.
If we want to experience God’s forgiveness, we must also be willing to extend forgiveness to others.
“Your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” (Matthew 6:18)
Fasting is not an opportunity to show others how committed or spiritual we are. Jesus taught that our focus should be on pleasing God rather than on people’s recognition.
It is worth asking ourselves: Am I doing this for God, or am I looking for people’s approval?
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:21)
There is nothing wrong with having possessions or working towards personal goals. The danger arises when these things become more important than God.
It is easy to become so focused on money, career, achievements or even relationships that our communion with God takes second place.
Jesus’ words encourage us to look at where we are investing our time, energy and attention, because these things reveal what we truly value.
“If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light.” (Matthew 6:22)
Have you ever assumed someone’s intentions without knowing the full story?
Our perspective can affect the way we treat people and respond to situations. Having good spiritual eyesight means choosing not to immediately see the worst in others or jump to conclusions.
This does not mean ignoring obvious concerns or lacking discernment. Instead, it means approaching situations fairly and avoiding unnecessary suspicion and negative assumptions.
Before making a judgement, take a step back and ask yourself: Do I know the facts, or am I filling in the gaps with my own assumptions?
Attending a church does not automatically mean that someone is living inside the Kingdom of God.
The church is a place where people gather, worship and learn. But living in God’s Kingdom requires something deeper: allowing His Word to transform your life.
Choosing to follow God means allowing His Word to challenge the way we have always lived.
Sometimes the changes are very practical. It may mean controlling our speech, avoiding offensive words, treating people with respect or choosing to act with integrity even when nobody is watching. Not everything that is considered normal by society is compatible with God’s principles.
The important question is: Are my habits being shaped by God’s Word?
Faith is not a performance.
A person can attend services, pray, fast, give and serve, while their heart is more focused on how they appear to others than about their relationship with God. That is why we need to regularly examine our motives. God wants sincerity and a genuine relationship with Him.
These seven attitudes all point to the same thing: protecting our relationship with God.
Living in the Kingdom of God is a daily decision. It affects how we respond when someone hurts us, what we value most, how we see others, which habits we keep and even the reasons behind the things we do for God.
It is not enough to hear the Word of God. We need to allow it to influence our choices.
Would you like to strengthen your relationship with God and learn how to apply His Word to your everyday life?
Join the School of Faith meetings held every Wednesday at your local Universal Church. Through these meetings, you can learn more about God’s Word and discover how to put your faith into practice.
Event: School of Faith
Day and time: Every Wednesday at 7:30pm (also at 7am, 10am and 3pm)
Location: Your local Universal Church