Homes on FireSample

Heaven Rules

The first step in lighting the fire and making your home an altar for the Father is to recognize who has authority in the house. Nebuchadnezzar was told that his kingdom would be firm when he believed that heaven rules, that there is no other authority over that of God the Father.

Peter tells us that we are a spiritual nation living in an earthly nation, subject to the laws of the country where we live, but aware that we have superior citizenship. All the nations of the earth have a natural government. That government is the one that establishes laws and legislation, and determines, in part, the culture of the country.

In the same way, subjecting to the laws of heaven establishes a culture in our homes. Those laws are internal, written in our hearts; laws such as " love your neighbour," "forgive those who offend you," "speak kindly" are the ones that mark us from within and establish a family culture. If your children see you react with peace in adversity, with wisdom at the crossroads, with meekness in the affronts, this will form a culture that will demonstrate the government of heaven in your home.

The chapters of Matthew 5 to 7, the Sermon on the Mount, are like the constitution of the kingdom. There you will find basic principles to live by.

Heaven rules not as a person says, but as the Father established it. When my will is not done, but His, conflicts are worked out differently. For example, a couple may have a different view on a subject, but allow themselves to be governed by God. They will not push their point of view but, in humility, consult what the Lord says about it. This process does not give rise to division or discord, but preserves the bond of love in peace.

Those who make up your home make a covenant for the laws of God to rule their hearts. This is the spark that ignites the fire, that in every situation, they will seek Him.

Challenge

· Make a family covenant, an agreement to live within the culture of the Kingdom in your home, consulting God in every circumstance.

· Read and study Matthew 5, 6, and 7 together, looking for principles of the Kingdom and how to live by them.

· In each challenge that arises, ask: What do you want, Lord?

Marcos Brunet