Living in the kingdom is at odds with our American culture. I think as our society fractures from one that was based on Christian principles to one that is different and still in formation, it is important to look at this clash.
First, does our society need to be based on Christian principles? That would be ideal. I mean, what would the world look like if we all lived out love of God and neighbor better? Then, we didn’t necessarily do a perfect job living this way when we did have those rights. Is it ok for people in our society to choose lifestyles that are different than our principles? God gave us freedom, so my answer is, yes. They should. At the same time, it needs to stay free enough for us to continue striving to live our own principles. The more we tell others how to live, the more they will try and tell us how to live. This is not a comment on preaching the Gospel. It is a comment on laws and social norms.
Second, living in the Kingdom today is about loving others. Our society is so at odds with this Christian requirement. We place ourselves and our comfort above others. This is such a hard commandment to live up to. We are told to save for a rainy day. We are told to save up so we are not a burden on people when we retire or can otherwise not work for a living. We are told these are a part of our obligations as Christians.
Let’s stop and think about this. There is some truth behind all of this. At the same time, one who trusts in God is one who is dependent on God. Should we fear that which draws us closer to God? No, but I know I still do. How about you? Sometimes, God cares for us through our practice of prudence; through our savings accounts.
The question is – how much? What is the balance between prudence and trusting in God? I do not have an answer. Here is what I believe. I believe that many of us can afford to give more, to do more. I think the answer lies in taking steps towards a greater trust in God. Once we finish a step or two, we should step back, pray, and ask God to show us where we are in our mutual ministries of trusting in him and loving others.
Spend some time today thinking about how often you put yourself in a position of trusting God by loving others with a little more of you and your possessions. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you where you can achieve a life that is more in line with Biblical teachings. Go out on a limb today, and trust in Him who can take any self-sacrifice, not matter how small, and turn it into something great; something that glorifies our Lord and Savior.
In Him,
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