Better Words, Better Actions: PraiseLive's 30 Day DevotionalSample

When we become a new creation in Christ, we are made alive with Christ (Ephesians 2:5), and we become children of God (1 John 3:1) and members in His body (Romans 12:5; 1 Corinthians 12:27). In addition to this change in our identity, the new creation also means that we have new citizenship! 

God has “rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves” (Colossians 1:13). Our primary citizenship is no longer this world; our true citizenship is in the kingdom of heaven. 

The kingdom of this world is “under the control of the evil one” (1 John 5:19) and stands in opposition to God. This kingdom operates from a scarcity mentality: resources, glory, and pleasure are limited, so we need to do all we can to promote ourselves, protect ourselves, and pursue our own fulfillment. When others experience honor (especially those with whom we are in conflict or who are different from us), we feel threatened because it takes away from the glory that could be ours.  

In contrast, the kingdom of heaven is founded upon God’s abundance and grace that he has “lavished on us.” (Ephesians 1:7-8). As people who have been “reconciled to [God] through Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:18) and have all that we need in Him, we no longer see others as enemies or as competition. Instead, we are free to “rejoice with those rejoice,” “mourn with those who mourn,” “live in harmony with one another,” and walk in humility, not considering ourselves above or better than anyone (Romans 12:15-16).  

Reflection Question: 

In what ways do my interactions with the people in my life reflect the kingdom of heaven or the kingdom of this world? Am I able to truly rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn, or do I secretly celebrate when someone I disagree with experiences failure or hardship?

Praise + Prayer:

Jesus, thank you that in You, I am a new creation with a new identity and new citizenship! Please reveal to me the thoughts, words, attitudes, and actions that are not in agreement with your kingdom. Continue to transform me so that my life and witness may invite others to receive the gift of reconciliation that you have graciously given me in Jesus Christ. Amen.

Action Idea: 

This week, pray and look for ways to intentionally rejoice or mourn with others, particularly those with whom you tend to find yourself in competition or conflict.