Living According to the Principles of the Kingdom of God

The Standards and Principles of the Kingdom of God

In the kingdom of God, there are standards and principles that guide our lives. These standards were initially laid out for the Israelites and their generations under the old covenant. However, it was not until the time of Jesus’ ministry that the true wisdom and mysteries of the kingdom began to be revealed.

During the time of the scribes, priests, and the rest of the Jews, they believed they were living righteously under the law. However, they were blinded by their limited understanding of the kingdom of God. Jesus came to teach them the principles of the kingdom, which initially seemed like a different doctrine to them. Unfortunately, many rejected Jesus and his teachings because they lacked knowledge of the kingdom of God.

To help the people understand, Jesus used parables and demonstrations to illustrate the principles of the kingdom. He wanted them to grasp the true nature of God’s kingdom and how to live in accordance with it. It was crucial for them to comprehend these principles so that they could effectively operate in God’s will.

The ministry of Jesus and his disciples transformed the way people thought about God and his purpose in forming a new testament with man. Under the old testament, men continually failed to live up to God’s standards. They had to constantly offer sacrifices for their sins. However, when Jesus came, he became the ultimate sacrifice, providing salvation and eternal life.

The principles of the kingdom of God are not merely theoretical concepts. They are meant to be learned and applied here on earth. When we understand and live by these principles, our prayers and worship become powerful, and heaven touches earth as God moves in our lives. The prophets in the old testament such as Elijah, Elisha to name a few understood kingdom principles and operated under some of these principles.

These principles also teach us how to occupy the spaces where God leads us. Whether it is in our workplaces, communities, or families, the principles of the kingdom guide us in living a victorious life on earth. They equip us with the wisdom and understanding to navigate the challenges and trials we may face.

Living according to the principles of the kingdom of God requires a shift in our mindset, reading the word of God especially Jesus’ ministry and that of the apostles, and a surrender to God’s will. It means aligning our thoughts, actions, and desires with God’s standards. As we do so, we experience the abundant life that God desires for us. Paul in Colossians 2:2-3 said that his goal was for others to be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely Christ in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

One of the key principles of the kingdom is love. Jesus emphasized the importance of loving God and loving others. This love goes beyond mere sentimentality; it is a selfless, sacrificial love that seeks the well-being of others. When we live in love, we reflect the character of God and become agents of transformation in the world.

Another principle is humility. Jesus taught that those who humble themselves will be exalted. Humility requires recognizing our dependence on God and acknowledging that our abilities and achievements come from Him. It involves putting others before ourselves and serving them with a heart of humility.

Additionally, the principle of forgiveness is central to the kingdom of God. Jesus taught us to forgive others as we have been forgiven by God. Forgiveness releases us from the bondage of bitterness and resentment, allowing us to experience freedom and reconciliation.

These are just a few examples of the principles of the kingdom of God. As we study and apply these kingdom principles in our lives, we will discover a whole lot more and the transformative power they hold. They enable us to live in alignment with God’s will and experience the fullness of His kingdom here on earth.

The standards and principles of the kingdom of God are meant to guide our lives and help us live victoriously. They were revealed through Jesus’ ministry and are here for us to learn and apply. By understanding and living according to these principles, we can experience the abundant life God desires for us and be agents of His kingdom in the world.