You shine!
 
“It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life. But there are some of you who do not believe.” For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were who did not believe, and who would betray Him. And He said, “Therefore I have said to you that no one can come to Me unless it has been granted to him by My Father.” 
John 6:63-65  
 
When you walk by the Spirit, live by His Word and stand firmly in faith in His Kingdom, you shine with the light of His Kingdom. You take the Kingdom of God everywhere you go! Your life represents His Kingdom. Open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me. Acts 26:18
 
Our presence as Kingdom citizens in this dark and fallen world will make an impact on those around us. The Holy Spirit—our Governor—and Kingdom principles and standards shine without us even saying a word. Remember, King Jesus didn’t pray for the world, but for those who were His:   “I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for those whom You have given Me, for they are Yours. And all Mine are Yours, and Yours are Mine, and I am glorified in them.” John 17:9-10 He also prayed for those future believers of faith in Him:  “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one:  I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me.” John 17:20-23
 
Kingdom citizens who live and operate in this fallen world must keep in mind that we are God’s Kingdom light shining as a beacon to those who are seeking His Kingdom. Read these words of King Jesus:   “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.” Matthew 5:14-15 Now note the next verse:  Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16
 
We, the citizens of His Kingdom are to walk in the Spirit so those who are around us will have a standard by which to live. This is why it is so important to be filled with the Governor—the Holy Spirit. He governs us, guiding us throughout our day.  Leading us to people, where we may not know what to say or do, but He does, if we will listen! He knows their need and we are His light shining on them.
 
When someone is filled with the Holy Spirit, they will not be so easily deceived by false teachers and preachers. They will not be deceived by someone just because what they are saying sounds “good” and they present themselves as a representative of God. King Jesus considered the people as sheep.  And Jesus, when He came out, saw a great multitude and was moved with compassion for them, because they were like sheep not having a shepherd. So He began to teach them many things. Mark 6:34
 
My focus as a Kingdom citizen, living in a dark and fallen world, is to always be a living example to others so they will know what life in God’s Kingdom is like. They will see that they can live in this world but not allow the darkness to enter their lives and home. His Light shines wherever His citizens go! I make it my business to constantly be praying throughout my day. It is a lifestyle for me, not something I do when there is a problem. We need that open communication with the Father every day! Even now, as I write this article, it is 3:54 AM and I am steadily in my purpose doing my assignment for my King. I know I am not alone. My Lord and King has others who are obedient to His Will, not seeking after fame and fortune but only seeking His Kingdom and to do His Will. I am honored that He chose me and my wife.
 
We are citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven. It is our responsibility to conduct ourselves as living examples of life in God’s Kingdom. This is accomplished because of the Holy Spirit—our Governor—residing with us and inside of us. That is how we are a light shining in this dark, fallen world. For God is pleased when, conscious of His will, you patiently endure unjust treatment. Of course, you get no credit for being patient if you are beaten for doing wrong. But if you suffer for doing good and endure it patiently, God is pleased with you. For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in His steps. 1 Peter 2:19-21 NLT
 
Keep in mind also, that light convicts those in this world without us saying a word. It is the convicting power of the Holy Spirit. It convicts and draws them to the Father.  Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you. And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: of sin, because they do not believe in Me; of righteousness, because I go to My Father and you see Me no more; of judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged. John 16:7-11
 
Light reveals what is hidden.  “There is so much more I want to tell you, but you can’t bear it now. When the Spirit of Truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on His own but will tell you what He has heard. He will tell you about the future. He will bring Me glory by telling you whatever He receives from Me. All that belongs to the Father is Mine; this is why I said, ‘The Spirit will tell you whatever He receives from Me.’” John 16:13-16 NLT
 
Then Jesus cried out and said, “He who believes in Me, believes not in Me but in Him who sent Me.  And he who sees Me sees Him who sent Me. I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness."
John 12:44-46

Always remember, your faith in His Word is your greatest asset in His Kingdom.

All scriptures are NKJV unless noted
​
W.R. Luchie
Deborah A Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org
 
This article may only be reproduced, in print or on the internet, if the author's name and website address are included at the end of the article as originally placed.  Thank you

First, I want to take a moment and thank my Lord and King for showing me my purpose and giving me this assignment to teach His Kingdom Gospel. This morning, He woke me up at about 4:15 AM with this message. I really appreciate my Father for allowing me to live this long to preach and teach His message, free from religious traditions. It is an honor to be able to carry this Kingdom message over the internet around the world!
 
In order to be “qualified” to preach and teach the Kingdom message, you first must be filled with His Spirit. Yes, I mean our Governor, the Holy Spirit. He will guide you into all truth. King Jesus said, “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.” John 16:13 
 
Note that He stated “He will guide you into all truth”. Keep in mind, the Governor—meaning he Holy Spirit—doesn’t have His own agenda, but only that of the Father. When you see men or women glorifying themselves, that is a clear sign they aren’t speaking the Lord God’s message. Again, King Jesus made that very clear to His disciples:  He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you.  John 16:14
 
I consider myself as ambassador Paul declared of himself as being a slave of my King and Lord. As one songwriter wrote, “You’ve got to serve somebody. It may be the devil or it may be the Lord.” I am glad to report that I serve King Jesus every day of my natural life, regardless of the circumstance. People can tell who you serve by your actions, more than your words! My wife Arlene and I are faithful to our assignment. We don’t add to the Kingdom message or take away from it. If we ever stray, we pray for the Holy Spirit to reveal that to us and make a correction of our direction.
 
King Jesus always stayed in line with His Father’s Will. By myself I can do nothing; I judge only as I hear, and My judgment is just, for I seek not to please myself but Him who sent Me. John 5:30 AMP Now if the King made this statement concerning Himself, what does that say for us? He stayed true to His assignment from Heaven. “Father, if it is Your Will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My Will, but Yours, be done.”  Luke 22:42
 
When an employee transcribes a letter for the employer, it is entered exactly as the employer said. Nothing more and nothing less. The employee doesn’t add their opinions or what they feel needs to be said. In order for one to teach the Lord God’s Kingdom message, they must thoroughly understand the Kingdom concept. The Lord God is the Author and Finisher of His Kingdom concept. When the Lord God gives you an assignment, remember the He is the Author and stay on that assignment until He gives you something else.
 
Read the words King Jesus spoke to Pilate:   Jesus answered, “My Kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now My Kingdom is not from here.” John 19:36  Kingdom citizens never concern themselves about rights and freedom while living in this world. This place on earth is temporary. That is a difference between having a Kingdom mindset and a religious mindset. This world is not our home. The things of this world are of no real consequence to us. We realize that we live in this world but aren’t of this world. We only live here for as long as our Lord and King allows.  So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:18 AMP
 
King Jesus made this prayer to His Father:  Now I am no longer in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to You. Holy Father, keep through Your name those whom You have given Me, that they may be one as We are. . .  I have given them Your Word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them by Your truth. Your Word is truth. As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world.  And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth. John 17:11, 14-19
 
King Jesus was speaking of His disciples, but He added us to His prayer to His Father. “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one: I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me.” John 17:20-23
 
The words of King Jesus concerning the religious Scribes and Pharisees shows us that religion has no place in God's Kingdom. We see here how Jesus felt about religion!  They crush people with unbearable religious demands and never lift a finger to ease the burden.

“Everything they do is for show. On their arms they wear extra wide prayer boxes with Scripture verses inside, and they wear robes with extra long tassels.  And they love to sit at the head table at banquets and in the seats of honor in the synagogues. They love to receive respectful greetings as they walk in the marketplaces, and to be called ‘Rabbi.’

“Don’t let anyone call you ‘Rabbi,’ for you have only one teacher, and all of you are equal as brothers and sisters. And don’t address anyone here on earth as ‘Father,’ for only God in heaven is your Father. And don’t let anyone call you ‘Teacher,’ for you have only one teacher, the Messiah. The greatest among you must be a servant. But those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.

“What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you shut the door of the Kingdom of Heaven in people’s faces. You won’t go in yourselves, and you don’t let others enter either." Matthew 23:4-14 NLT 
(The whole chapter is excellent! It clearly shows King Jesus' attitude  about the religious. Matthew 23)

The Lord God’s charge to His people was this:  My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, also will reject you from being priest for Me; because you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children. Hosea 4:6 The same situation exists today to the self proclaimed people of faith, when they fail to read and study the Lord God’s Constitution and fail to listen to the leading of the Holy Spirit, our Governor. We need a reverence for God’s Word and never throw it around casually, using scriptures out of context to fit our personal “narrative”.
 
We must approach teaching and preaching the Kingdom Gospel as Jesus taught, circumspectly; with a reverential fear of the Lord God.  We should never allow ourselves to misrepresent Him or His Kingdom!
 
Remember, your faith in His Word is your greatest asset in His Kingdom.

​All scriptures are NKJV unless noted
​
W.R. Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org
 
This article may only be reproduced, in print or on the internet, if the author's name and website address are included at the end of the article as originally placed.  Thank you

​King Jesus, the Lord God’s Son, had only one message: “The Kingdom of the Lord God is near”.  Keep in mind that Jesus’ earthly cousin, John, preached that message first, preparing the way.  In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and saying, “Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!” For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying:  “The voice of one crying in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; Make His paths straight.’ ” Matthew 3:1-3 However, King Jesus always demonstrated how His Kingdom operated here on earth. He was a living example of a Kingdom life on earth. And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the Kingdom, and healing all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease among the people. Then His fame went throughout all Syria; and they brought to Him all sick people who were afflicted with various diseases and torments, and those who were demon-possessed, epileptics, and paralytics; and He healed them. Matthew 4:23-24
 
Keep this thought in mind; He only had one message. Everything else was demonstrations of how His Kingdom operated. Also remember that King Jesus always taught in the synagogue. Preaching is for getting one’s attention; teaching is for education and direction. There is a purpose and time for each. In the synagogue, he had their attention; they were there to be taught. Citizens of the Kingdom need guidance, wisdom and understanding. Ambassador Paul made this statement in God’s Constitution. Therefore I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies [dedicating all of yourselves, set apart] as a living sacrifice holy and well-pleasing to God, which is your rational (logical, intelligent) act of worship.  And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you]. Romans 12:1-2 AMP
 
Mankind’s nature is to get bored quickly and want something new. But the Lord God wants His citizens to become more and more like Him. That will only happen by keeping our minds in “renewal mode” in terms of His Constitution. To become more and more reflective of our King, our minds must be filled with His Word. Without it, we will never be more like Him!  If you will allow Him, our Governor—the Holy Spirit—will guide and teach you everything you need to know. Jesus said, “If you love Me, keep My commandments. And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever—the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. . . But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. John 14:15-17, 26   However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. John 16:13
 
When the Lord God gave me the assignment to teach by written word, He assigned my wife Arlene to assist me. He instructed us to stay focused on one message—the Kingdom of Heaven is here!  Since 2012, we have been obedient to His assignment for our lives and we are content with His purpose and assignment for our lives. We are a team, as when King Jesus sent out His disciples. He always sent them out as a team. When you understand the message He has given you and your assignment, you will also feel contentment working in it. Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Philippians 4:11-13 NLT
 
The Kingdom message and its principles should be the only message that is taught; not prosperity or how to get wealth, or being a person of influence, or angels or happiness. The only message is wrapped up in seeking FIRST the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. Don’t be led by what man wants or even by their troubles (depression, anxiety, lack for example), but by the Holy Spirit—our Governor. The Holy Spirit will never lead your astray.  In order for you to embrace His Kingdom, you must value it! King Jesus spoke of its value in these parables:  Again, the Kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.
 
Again, the Kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls,  who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it. Matthew 13:44-46 How much to you value your life in God’s Kingdom?
 
May I reiterate, that the Kingdom government should be taught and preached by His born again citizens. Our Lord sent His disciples out to preach the same message with these instructions. These twelve Jesus sent out and commanded them, saying: “Do not go into the way of the Gentiles, and do not enter a city of the Samaritans.  But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And as you go, preach, saying, ‘The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.’  Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give. Provide neither gold nor silver nor copper in your money belts, nor bag for your journey, nor two tunics, nor sandals, nor staffs; for a worker is worthy of his food.
 
Now whatever city or town you enter, inquire who in it is worthy, and stay there till you go out. And when you go into a household, greet it. If the household is worthy, let your peace come upon it. But if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you.  And whoever will not receive you nor hear your words, when you depart from that house or city, shake off the dust from your feet.  Assuredly, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city! Matthew 10:5-15 He gave all of them the same instructions, nothing different. He did not give each one a different message to preach. It was all about His Kingdom government and how they should conduct themselves. He also stated this concerning His Kingdom:  “Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a fishing net that was thrown into the water and caught fish of every kind.  When the net was full, they dragged it up onto the shore, sat down, and sorted the good fish into crates, but threw the bad ones away. That is the way it will be at the end of the world. The angels will come and separate the wicked people from the righteous, throwing the wicked into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Do you understand all these things?” “Yes,” they said, “we do.”
 
Then He added, “Every teacher of religious law who becomes a disciple in the Kingdom of Heaven is like a homeowner who brings from his storeroom new gems of truth as well as old.” Matthew 13:47-52 NLT Everyone has their assignment, even the angels. Our assignment is to preach the Gospel of His Kingdom and be a living example of life in God's Kingdom right now. There are no greater or lesser assignments, when it is given by our Father.
 
Remember, your greatest asset in His Kingdom is your faith in Him.

All scriptures are NKJV unless noted
​
W.R. Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org
 
This article may only be reproduced, in print or on the internet, if the author's name and website address are included at the end of the article as originally placed.  Thank you

The Lord God wants to be first in our lives and the One you spend most of your time with. He desires for our thoughts to be of Him and that we want to spend time with Him through God’s constitution and prayer. If we do, our faith in the Lord God will grow. You will keep in perfect and constant peace the one whose mind is steadfast [that is, committed and focused on You—in both inclination and character], because he trusts and takes refuge in You [with hope and confident expectation]. Isaiah 26:3 AMP
 
When the King brought His people, Israel, out of the land of Egypt, His first command was this: And God spoke all these words, saying, “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. You shall have no other gods before Me. You shall not make for yourself a carved image—any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; you shall not bow down to them nor serve them. For I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me, but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments. Exodus 20:1-6
 
Note these words “For I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God” We should give those words serious consideration. These words from our Lord and King are a top priority for Kingdom citizens. He is our life source and He has commanded us to do so. For you shall not worship any other god; for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous (impassioned) God [demanding what is rightfully and uniquely His] Exodus 34:14 AMP   

Keep in mind that even though He was speaking concerning His people, the children of Israel, it appliers to us in this present day. His laws and standards haven’t changed. Don’t misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not even the smallest detail of God’s law will disappear until its purpose is achieved. So if you ignore the least commandment and teach others to do the same, you will be called the least in the Kingdom of Heaven. But anyone who obeys God’s laws and teaches them will be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven. Matthew 5:17-19 NLT
 
It is so easy to get caught up in the activities of this world. We get caught up in sports and entertainment. We unknowingly spend more time watching our favorite sports or entertainment “stars” than studying God’s constitution. As citizens of the Kingdom of God we must always be mindful of what the Lord God’s constitution says concerning our behavior and His true place in our lives. Religious believers are no less likely to get caught up and distracted by politics, entertainment and sports than the world. It is time to evaluate our lives, where our focus is and where our precious time is spent!
 
There are many individuals who claim to know the Lord God, but don’t make Him first priority in their lives. Without that, He is not truly Lord of their life. Money and our pursuit of riches take precedence over the Lord God and His Kingdom.  Do you recall what King Jesus stated? No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money. Matthew 6:24 NLT
 
The God we serve is a jealous God. We cannot argue with that because He said it! For the Lord your God is a consuming fire; He is a jealous (impassioned) God [demanding what is rightfully and uniquely His]. Deuteronomy 4:24 AMP Too many people who claim to know and love the Lord God worship things made by mankind and even man himself. They worship the created things and not the Creator Himself! Many love their animals more than the King of Heaven and earth. Many choose to worship those in Hollywood, sports, politics and relationships even to the point of memorializing the dead to the point of idolatry.  Paul spoke of it:  Because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things.
 
Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Romans 1:21-25 Remember what is stated in His constitution. For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness. Romans 1:18
 
Even ministry may become an idol! Often those in a ministry are so caught up in "doing ministry" and making things happen that the Lord gets pushed to the side because they are "doing it for Jesus" and consider everything they do their worship. But I ask, When did you last focus on the Lord God and spend time in prayer and praise and when did you last read God's Word to hear from the Holy Spirit and not to prepare a sermon? When did you last just focus on His goodness to you and praise Him for it? If your ministry is overwhelmingly hard and "sucks the life out of you" it's time to evaluate whether the Lord God is really first in your life and exactly what He has called you to do. Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let Me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 NLT

Mankind has made ministry and church look far more like man than God. This is ministry:

Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do His work and build up the church, the body of Christ. This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God’s Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ.  Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won’t be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth. Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of His body, the church. He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love. Ephesians 4:12-16 NLT

Ask yourself these questions: Is the Lord God truly first in your life? What takes precedence above Him? Are there any idols in your life? 

Again, I remind you that your faith in His Word is your greatest asset in the Kingdom.

All NKJV, except where noted.

​~~W.R. & D. Arlene Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org
 
This article may only be reproduced, in print or on the internet, if the author's name and website address are included at the end of the article as originally placed.  Thank you

The King we serve is a God of principles and order. Everything He created was established to operate by certain principles that guarantee its inhabitants proper function. For example, one of the most important of these principles ordained by the Lord God to protect and preserve His handiwork is the principle of environment. That was one thing I really had to ponder!
 
Now, the word environment is defines as circumstances, objects and conditions by which one is surrounded. In other words, the surroundings or atmosphere in which we live. Keep in mind that everything in this life was created to function within a particular environment that the Lord God prescribed for it before He created it. Notice how He laid the foundation, step upon step. In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.
 
Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. And God saw the light, that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness He called Night. So the evening and the morning were the first day.
 
Then God said, “Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters.” Thus God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament; and it was so. And God called the firmament Heaven. So the evening and the morning were the second day. Genesis 1:1-8
 
Now notice the process by which the Lord God created the plants and animals and how they have the same pattern. Before the Lord God spoke the plants and animals into existence, He gathered the waters together so that the dry ground would appear. Only then He spoke to the sea, commanding it to bring forth the variety of fish and sea creatures for the waters. Then God said, “Let the waters under the heavens be gathered together into one place, and let the dry land appear”; and it was so. And God called the dry land Earth, and the gathering together of the waters He called Seas. And God saw that it was good.
 
Then God said, “Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb that yields seed, and the fruit tree that yields fruit according to its kind, whose seed is in itself, on the earth”; and it was so. And the earth brought forth grass, the herb that yields seed according to its kind, and the tree that yields fruit, whose seed is in itself according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. 
 
Then God said, “Let the waters abound with an abundance of living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth across the face of the firmament of the heavens.” So God created great sea creatures and every living thing that moves, with which the waters abounded, according to their kind, and every winged bird according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. And God blessed them, saying, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let birds multiply on the earth.” So the evening and the morning were the fifth day.
 
Then God said, “Let the earth bring forth the living creature according to its kind: cattle and creeping thing and beast of the earth, each according to its kind”; and it was so. And God made the beast of the earth according to its kind, cattle according to its kind, and everything that creeps on the earth according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. Genesis 1:9-12, 20-25 Please take notice of how the Lord God prepared each unique environment for His creation. Then and only then He finally created man. Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. Genesis 1:26-27
 
The verses I have mentioned above from God’s constitution clearly reveal that the Lord God is the source of all mankind. You can plainly see mankind was created to be in the image of the Lord God, who is Spirit, and to live in the same environment as the Lord God which is the realm of the spirit and the environment of the King. Read what the Lord Jesus stated to the woman at the well:  God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth. John 4:24
 
Before the Lord God created everything in the world, He created a unique environment for that creation. Keep in mind, the environment of this world can be positive or negative, productive or non-productive, healthy or unhealthy depending on where you are. For example, if you place a goldfish on a table, after a short period of time, it will die, because it is out of its environment. It was created to live in water. And not just any water! Some fish need salt water, some fresh.
 
The Lord God, with great detail, created a unique environment for all of His creation. Mankind was created to walk on land and breathe in oxygen. He was not created to live in the sea. To flourish, we must be in the unique environment the Lord God created for His citizens. How well you function is dependent on whether or not you are in the environment the Lord God created for you. In the wrong environment you may survive, but never flourish!
 
We will continue with this next week.
 
Your greatest asset in the Kingdom is your faith in King Jesus and His Word.

​All NKJV, except where noted.

​~~W.R. Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org
 
This article may only be reproduced, in print or on the internet, if the author's name and website address are included at the end of the article as originally placed.  Thank you

​Every person is born with a gift, or gifts, from the Lord God. In order for your gifts to reach their maximum potential in service for the Lord God’s Kingdom, they need to be reconnected to their original source. No one really knows the true essence of their gifts unless they reconnect with the Spirit of their Creator God. By the way, our Governor—the Holy Spirit—activates your gift to a level that cannot be done in your own abilities. “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”

But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. 1 Corinthians 2:9-10 Ambassador Paul was quoting from the prophet Isaiah. For since the beginning of the world men have not heard nor perceived by the ear, nor has the eye seen any God besides You, Who acts for the one who waits for Him. Isaiah 64:4 For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; and the former shall not be remembered or come to mind. Isaiah 65:17 Yes, we shall not remember any of our old life on the new earth. You shall not remember them anymore.
 
When you are connected to the Kingdom, the Holy Spirit reconnects you to the source of your gifts so that you may understand what you have been given by your Father. Not just the value of your gift, but the impact of it. In other words, no one’s intellect alone can discern or understand the gift that the King has placed in you for the purpose of the Kingdom. If you want to know what the Spirit of the Living God really created inside of you, you have to reconnect to the Governor—the Holy Spirit. I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now.  However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you. All things that the Father has are Mine. Therefore I said that He will take of Mine and declare  it to you. John 16:12-15
 
Without the Holy Spirit living inside of you, you don’t have your passport to be caught up in the Kingdom when the King returns to retrieve His citizens. Do you recall what ambassador Paul stated to those Kingdom citizens, who resided in the city of Rome?  But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His. And if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you. Romans 8:9-11
 
Ambassador Paul also assures us that those who live by His Word have Lord’s Spirit—the Holy Spirit. “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”
 
But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God.  Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God. 1 Corinthians 2:9-12 Ambassador Paul is telling us that we don’t even realize what we really are until our Governor—the Holy Spirit—reveals it to us.
 
Keep this in mind, there are many things about ourselves that we will never know or understand until we reconnect to the Holy Spirit.  Without our Governor, you can never recognize what has been placed deep within you. You cannot really know who you are without the Spirit of the Living God. By the way that is why many believers live far below their potential in the Word. Keep this in mind: the Holy Spirit assists you in executing these gifts for the Kingdom’ sake. For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable [for He does not withdraw what He has given, nor does He change His mind about those to whom He gives His grace or to whom He sends His call]. Romans 11:29 AMP He never takes your gifts and calling away, but fulfilling it in the Kingdom is your decision. Listen to the leading of our Governor—the Holy Spirit.
 
Remember, your faith in His Word is your greatest asset in the Kingdom government.

​​All NKJV, except where noted.
​
​~~W.R. Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org
 
This article may only be reproduced, in print or on the internet, if the author's name and website address are included at the end of the article as originally placed.  Thank you

To know the Lord God’s purpose for your life, you first must study and seek to be obedient to His Word above anything else. Study and do your best to present yourself to God approved, a workman [tested by trial] who has no reason to be ashamed, accurately handling and skillfully teaching the Word of Truth. 2 Timothy 2:15 AMP

The Lord God instructed Saul through Samuel, His representative, to destroy all the Amalekites, even the children, infants, cattle, sheep, camels and donkeys. Now go and attack Amalek, and utterly destroy all that they have, and do not spare them. But kill both man and woman, infant and nursing child, ox and sheep, camel and donkey. 1 Samuel 15:3 That may seem extreme, but that is what He commanded Saul to do. He didn’t tell him to “use his own judgment, as if Saul knew better than the Lord God!
 
Then the Lord God gave Samuel a word for King Saul:   So Samuel said, “When you were little in your own eyes, were you not head of the tribes of Israel? And did not the Lord anoint you king over Israel? Now the Lord sent you on a mission, and said, ‘Go, and utterly destroy the sinners, the Amalekites, and fight against them until they are consumed.’ Why then did you not obey the voice of the Lord? Why did you swoop down on the spoil, and do evil in the sight of the Lord?” 1 Samuel 15:17-19
 
Keep in mind that the Lord God wants complete obedience to His Word, not a partial response. He wants man to trust Him and freely obey Him, even down to what may seem as the smallest detail. But Saul and his people thought they knew better than the Lord God and could make good use of that livestock.  And Saul said to Samuel, “But I have obeyed the voice of the Lord, and gone on the mission on which the Lord sent me, and brought back Agag king of Amalek; I have utterly destroyed the Amalekites. But the people took of the plunder, sheep and oxen, the best of the things which should have been utterly destroyed, to sacrifice to the Lord your God in Gilgal.” 1 Samuel 15:20-21 Remember, the Lord God told him to destroy all. Here is the Lord God’s response to Saul through His prophet Samuel:  So Samuel said:  “Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams.

For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, He also has rejected you from being king.” 1 Samuel 15:22-23
 
Now, concerning our top priority in discovering your God given purpose in life, King Jesus made it quite clear when He was speaking to His disciples. He started out by telling them not to worry and what their priority should be:  Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?  Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?  Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?
 
So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
 
Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
 
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. Matthew 6:25-34
 
Once you are obedient to His Word you will not have to pursue your purpose. The Lord and King will reveal it to you as He did to ambassador Paul. He first will get your total attention, and then He will give you what you need to live in victory in this world. He gives you the Holy Spirit—our Governor in the Kingdom of God. The Holy Spirit is the extension of the Lord God, sent to lead and guide those who love and obey God’s Word. King Jesus told His disciples about the Holy Spirit:  And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it.
 
If you love Me, keep My commandments. And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever—the Spirit of truth,  whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. John 14:13-17
 
Discovering the Lord God’s purpose for your life hinges on your priorities. Your priority is not to seek your purpose, but to seek God’s Kingdom and His righteousness. To do that, you must seek His Word and His rightness by desiring to be obedient to His constitution. When you desire His righteousness for your life above everything else, you will know the assignment He placed on your life. As Jesus told us, our Father will take care of everything else.
 
As He told the woman who said to bless His mother who bore Him:  But He said, “On the contrary, blessed (happy, favored by God) are those who hear the Word of God and continually observe it.” Luke 11:28 AMP This is our priority and focus. And don’t worry about tomorrow either! (Matthew 6:34)
 
Remember, your faith in His Word is your greatest asset in His Kingdom.

W.R. Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org

All scriptures are New King James translation except where noted.

These articles may only be reproduced, in print or on the internet, if the author's name and website address are sited at the end of the article as originally placed.  Thank you.

Here is a bold statement. If you are working in your God given purpose and assignment, you will not die until that purpose is completed according to His Will.
 
There is a purpose for your life and there is a divine God-given purpose for your life. The first one is the purpose and goals that you set for yourself. The second is the purpose—and assignments that go along with it—that the Lord God has ordained for you from the beginning of time. It was the latter in Abram’s case:  Now the Lord had said to Abram:  “Get out of your country, from your family and from your father’s house, to a land that I will show you.  I will make you a great nation; I will bless you and make your name great; and you shall be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” Genesis 12:1-3
 
It is very important that you stay in line with the Lord God’s Word. At the time when the Lord God spoke to Abram, there was no written word, just the Lord God speaking to His representative. Understand this, when the Lord God makes a promise, He always keeps it. For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us. 2 Corinthians 1:20
 
I recall what the angel Gabriel said to Mary concerning the birth of Jesus Christ through her:  For with God nothing will be impossible. Luke 1:37 Now, the question is, does your purpose line up with the will of our Father for your life? The only way you will know that is by allowing His Word to saturate your mind and being tuned in to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. By obeying and living according to His Word, you will discover your purpose in this life. A man’s mind plans his way [as he journeys through life], But the Lord directs his steps and establishes them. Proverbs 16:9 AMP
 
One of the greatest examples of an individual with a purpose and assignment was a young shepherd boy by the name of David, whom the Lord God had chosen to be King of Israel. Keep in mind that the Lord God picked David to be king first hand when David was very young. Now the Lord said to Samuel, “How long will you mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? Fill your horn with oil, and go; I am sending you to Jesse the Bethlehemite. For I have provided Myself a king among his sons.” 1 Samuel 16:1
 
Long before the Lord God had informed Samuel, His representative, that David was to be king, the Lord God protected David and gave him courage to protect and defend his father’s sheep. David explains his exploits to King Saul: And Saul said to David, “You are not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him; for you are a youth, and he a man of war from his youth.”
 
But David said to Saul, “Your servant used to keep his father’s sheep, and when a lion or a bear came and took a lamb out of the flock, I went out after it and struck it, and delivered the lamb from its mouth; and when it arose against me, I caught it by its beard, and struck and killed it. Your servant has killed both lion and bear; and this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, seeing he has defied the armies of the living God.” Moreover David said, “The Lord, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” 1 Samuel 17;33-37 Know this, the Lord God had His purpose and assignment for David before his birth. Before David would take over as king, the Lord God gave him several assignments. One of his assignments was to slay the giant Philistine called Goliath. He did it with just a sling and a stone.
 
It wasn’t in his own power, but in the power and protection of God’s assignment on his life. David couldn’t lose because this was God’s Will!
 
Remember, any time the Lord God gives you a purpose and assignment, there will always be victory.  Moreover David said, “The Lord, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.”
 
And Saul said to David, “Go, and the Lord be with you!”
 
So Saul clothed David with his armor, and he put a bronze helmet on his head; he also clothed him with a coat of mail. David fastened his sword to his armor and tried to walk, for he had not tested them. And David said to Saul, “I cannot walk with these, for I have not tested them.” So David took them off.
 
Then he took his staff in his hand; and he chose for himself five smooth stones from the brook, and put them in a shepherd’s bag, in a pouch which he had, and his sling was in his hand. And he drew near to the Philistine. So the Philistine came, and began drawing near to David, and the man who bore the shield  went before him. And when the Philistine looked about and saw David, he disdained him; for he was only a youth, ruddy and good-looking.  So the Philistine said to David, “Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks?”
 
And the Philistine cursed David by his gods.  And the Philistine said to David, “Come to me, and I will give your flesh to the birds of the air and the beasts of the field!”
 
 Then David said to the Philistine, “You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.  This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you and take your head from you. And this day I will give the carcasses of the camp of the Philistines to the birds of the air and the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. 
Then all this assembly shall know that the Lord does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the Lord’s, and He will give you into our hands.”
 
So it was, when the Philistine arose and came and drew near to meet David, that David hurried and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine. Then David put his hand in his bag and took out a stone; and he slung it and struck the Philistine in his forehead, so that the stone sank into his forehead, and he fell on his face to the earth. So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone, and struck the Philistine and killed him. But there was no sword in the hand of David. Therefore David ran and stood over the Philistine, took his sword and drew it out of its sheath and killed him, and cut off his head with it.
 
And when the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they fled. 1 Samuel 17:37-51

My question to you is this:  How can you lose when the King has given you a purpose and an assignment to fulfill? When you are obedient to His Word and follow the leading of the Governor—the Holy Spirit—you can’t lose. Remember you are eternally protected when you follow God’s purpose for your life. When that purpose is complete, according so His Will, you will be free to go to the Father. So we are always confident, even though we know that as long as we live in these bodies we are not at home with the Lord. For we live by believing and not by seeing.  Yes, we are fully confident, and we would rather be away from these earthly bodies, for then we will be at home with the Lord. 2 Corinthians 5:6-8 NLT
 
Once again remember, your faith in the Lord Jesus is your greatest asset in His Kingdom.

​W.R. Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org

All scriptures are New King James translation except where noted.

These articles may only be reproduced, in print or on the internet, if the author's name and website address are sited at the end of the article as originally placed.  Thank you.

While the Lord Jesus was here on this earth, He lived His life according to His Kingdom government. He lived according to His Father’s Will. Read what the Lord Jesus said:  “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.
 
“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.
 
“As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.” John 15:1-11
 
Now I want to be clear, while we are here on earth, we must live by Kingdom principles and are subject to His Word. Remember we are in this world but since we have been filled with His Spirit, we aren’t of this world. Ambassador Paul made it very plain when he made this statement: 

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. Galatians 5:22-26 That is how we are to live, but we cannot do it in our own strength, only when we are led by the Governor—the Holy Spirit. But some of the "fruits of the world" are fear, anxiety, worry, loneliness, depression, despair, anger and rage. I'm sure you could name more. Which fruits are growing in your life? When you go through a crisis, do people see peace in you or fear and despair? 
 
In order for us to live an effective life as a citizen of the Kingdom, we must put our total trust in the King. We must not concern ourselves with what mankind can do to us. Read what the Lord God’s constitution has to say concerning how we are to operate down here:   Don’t love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, “I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.”
 
So we can say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?
 
Remember your leaders who taught you the word of God. Think of all the good that has come from their lives, and follow the example of their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Hebrews 13:5-8 NLT
 
Never fear what this world’s government can do to you. Always trust in the Lord God’s promises! He will always keep His Word. He never changes. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever. His Words and principles never change. They are eternal and don’t change with the times!
 
Now that we are converted and filled with His Holy Spirit, we are to live by His Word. I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the Kingdom of God. Galatians 5:16-21
 
Do you recall what the Lord Jesus stated to His disciples before the vast number of them deserted Him?  The Spirit alone gives eternal life. Human effort accomplishes nothing. And the very words I have spoken to you are spirit and life. John 6:63 NLT While we are here on this earth, living in this present world, we are to live by His Word. That is how we as citizens of His Kingdom are supposed to operate. We are to stay focused on His Word in all that we say and do. His blessings and promises are in His Kingdom. If we live according to this world’s standards, we are not living life in the Kingdom but in the world and cannot expect to receive anything from the Lord. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. . .  But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does. James 1:5-8,25
 
We should never fear for our lives because He is always with us. When He has a purpose and assignment for you, He will see you through it. You are to live with radical faith in our King and trust that nothing will harm you. Here is an example of that protection from ambassador Paul:  Now when they had escaped, they then found out that the island was called Malta. And the natives showed us unusual kindness; for they kindled a fire and made us all welcome, because of the rain that was falling and because of the cold. But when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and laid them on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat, and fastened on his hand. So when the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one another, “No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he has escaped the sea, yet justice does not allow to live.” But he shook off the creature into the fire and suffered no harm. However, they were expecting that he would swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But after they had looked for a long time and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds and said that he was a god. Acts 28:1-6 My conclusion is this:  put all your faith in King Jesus!
 
Remember, your faith in His Word is your most valuable asset in the Kingdom.

​​W.R. Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org

All scriptures are New King James translation except where noted.

These articles may only be reproduced, in print or on the internet, if the author's name and website address are sited at the end of the article as originally placed.  Thank you.

​We are ambassadors for the Lord Jesus Christ. Our nation is God’s Kingdom. We are sent to represent our King and His government (laws, culture, and principles), no matter where we may live here on earth.
 
So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know Him now! This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!
 
And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to Himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to Him. For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to Himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And He gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation. So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making His appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!” 2 Corinthians 5:16-20 NLT  We are to live in such a way that others should hunger to have what we possess.
 
It is vital that we stay in God’s constitution and walk by the Spirit. What do I mean by “walk in the Spirit”?  I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.  For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish. Galatians 5:16-17  The Lord Jesus made this statement while speaking to His disciples:  It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life. John 6:63 The only way we can walk and live by the Spirit is to have the Word and the Holy Spirit living in you. There aren’t any substitutes. That is what a Kingdom ambassador does. Regardless of where they go, they represent the King’s government and nation.
 
When the Lord Jesus came to earth, He represented His Kingdom in every way. Read what He told John the Baptist’s disciples. Now it came to pass, when Jesus finished commanding His twelve disciples, that He departed from there to teach and to preach in their cities.
 
And when John had heard in prison about the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples and said to Him, “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?”
 
Jesus answered and said to them, “Go and tell John the things which you hear and see: The blind see and the lame walk; the lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear; the dead are raised up and the poor have the gospel preached to them.  And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me.” Matthew 11:1-6  Keep this in mind, being filled with the Governor—meaning the Holy Spirit—is a prerequisite for being an ambassador of the Kingdom of the living God.  
 
Remember, the Lord Jesus was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then Jesus, being filled with the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness. Luke 4:1 The Lord Jesus required that His disciples were to be filled with the Governor—the Holy Spirit. Before the Lord Jesus left this earth to be with His Father, He made this statement. And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me; for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”  Acts 1:4-5
 
Before our Lord and King was to use Paul as an ambassador and apostle to the Gentiles, He had to be filled with the Holy Spirit. But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.”
 
And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized. Acts 9:15-18
 
Ambassadors of the Lord God’s Kingdom don’t get entangled in this world’s affairs. When you are filled with the Holy Spirit, you become an ambassador and the thought of death has no authority over you. You become bold in the King’s Word. Ambassador Paul was bold and unafraid of death or anything the world could do to him!
 
Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word,  by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus.”
 
And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness. Acts 4:29-31 To make it more plain, an ambassador represents his own nation (Kingdom) and only his nation and its government.
 
Remember, your faith in the King and His Word is your most valuable asset in the Kingdom.

​W.R. Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org

All scriptures are New King James translation except where noted.

These articles may only be reproduced, in print or on the internet, if the author's name and website address are sited at the end of the article as originally placed.  Thank you.

Seeking the Lord God’s Kingdom is our number one mandate. Some of you probably think I say that too often. But it is truly the only way to an abundant Kingdom life! Everything else falls under it. Seek His Kingdom and His righteousness! As far as I am concerned, when the Lord Jesus made the following statement, He caused a spiritual earthquake:

Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Matthew 6:25  These are the very things we work and labor for. When He made that statement, He turned the culture and society on their ears. With those brief words, King Jesus stripped us of everything we thought was important. For example—Food, drink, clothing, shelter, automobiles, finances, luxuries—are just a few of the things we as people live for. These are the things we get out of bed for on a daily basis. They may be things we need, but they are not what we are to seek after. They are not to be our focus and first priority. By the way, these are the very things that, if we seek the Kingdom first, we wouldn’t have to concern ourselves with, because the King will provide for us. We only first have to obey and seek His Kingdom. But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Matthew 6:33 
 
Please note:  All of the things that are mentioned are for the exterior—the flesh—not for the spirit of man. It is the pursuit of all these things that drive humanity and its cultures. Yet these are the very things the King stated we shouldn’t live for.
 
Please note:  The King has an obligation to take care of His citizens. He will supply all of our needs. Trust Him. Ambassador Paul made that very clear in his letter to the Philippians. And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 Remember that the Lord Jesus told us to not even worry about those things. Are you aware that worrying is nothing more than doubt and a lack of faith? Doubt brings on anxiety and hinders our belief in the Lord God’s constitution.  But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. James 1:6 James goes on to say, For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. James 1:7-8 Ouch!  Did you feel that one? That one stings!
 
Focus point:  When the Lord Jesus made the statement concerning His Father’s Kingdom, He stripped away all of our confusing energy-draining, deceptive, distracting, misleading and misplaced priorities. He left us with one simple focus—seeking the Kingdom of the Lord God and His righteousness! In doing so, He also gave us the key to a simpler and fulfilling life.
 
The Lord Jesus said that when we make the Kingdom of the Lord God our first priority, all these other things that we have been pursuing will turn around and pursue us! When are we going to get a clue? Those things will chase us down. This is the fundamental principle of the Lord God’s Kingdom. But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. This is one of the simplest statement in God’s constitution, yet it is one of the least to be obeyed. Keep in mind, we are possessed by our quest for things and what many call “the good life” and “happiness”. While the Lord God is looking for Kingdom minded citizens, possessed with His Holy Spirit.
 
Please note:  All who seek the Kingdom of God and make it a priority gain access to all the King’s riches and His resources. We own nothing, but He gives His people access. You will never have to settle for scraps. You are a child of the King and a citizen of His Kingdom! Even though we live here in this three dimensional world, our real home—our citizenship—is in the Lord God’s Kingdom. Read what ambassador Paul said:  For I have told you often before, and I say it again with tears in my eyes, that there are many whose conduct shows they are really enemies of the cross of Christ. They are headed for destruction. Their god is their appetite, they brag about shameful things, and they think only about this life here on earth. But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for Him to return as our Savior. Philippians 3:18-20 
 
Kingdom citizens don’t just live on this earth to make a living or a paycheck. They have an assignment from the King and work for the Kingdom. Always remember that no matter who signs your paychecks, as a citizen of the Kingdom, your Lord and King is your source.
 
Remember, your greatest asset is your faith in His Word.
 
No doubt!

​W.R. Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org

All scriptures are New King James translation except where noted.

These articles may only be reproduced, in print or on the internet, if the author's name and website address are sited at the end of the article as originally placed.  Thank you.

Think about this:  The religion that is called Christianity is failing because it is divided by many factors, such as color (that the world labels as race), culture, denomination, and economic status. Why do I say color and culture rather than race? Because there is only one race and that is the human race.  Then God said, “Let Us make human beings in Our image, to be like Us. They will reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, the livestock, all the wild animals on the earth, and the small animals that scurry along the ground.”

So God created human beings in His own image. In the image of God He created them; male and female He created them. Genesis 1:26-27 NLT

That unites us. Yes we are one race—human! Many people are blinded. Therefore they could not believe, because Isaiah said again:  “He has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts, lest they should see with their eyes, lest they should understand with their hearts and turn, so that I should heal them.” John 12:39-40  Please understand that though this is referring to the religious sect of the Lord Jesus’ day, this still applies to us in this day and time. Satan uses lies, deception, fear, and unbelief to separate the people of God. I’ll bet that each of you can think of someone whom you would have considered a friend—maybe a close friend—that has distanced themselves from you this past year. This past year has been saturated with lies, deception and fear and it has brought a great division, even among God’s people.
 
Religion is full of tradition and customs, and in most cases it has nothing whatsoever to do with God’s Kingdom. It often focuses more on manmade laws than God’s Word. Manmade laws and traditions, bring division. Read what the Lord Jesus answered when religious teachers accused Him of being possessed by Satan because He was able to cast out demons: So He called them to Himself and said to them in parables: “How can Satan cast out Satan? If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. And if a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand." Mark 3:23-25
 
In the Kingdom, there is no division or chaos! We should all be speaking the “same language”. Why, then, would we accept divisions amongst Believers and their churches (denominations)? The Lord God, His Son and the Holy Spirit are one. Our Lord and King made this statement:  I and My Father are one. John 10:30 Remember that the Lord God has you in His hands. You are secure in Him. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand. John 10:28-29 
 
The Lord Jesus came to restore His Kingdom and not a religion. In a kingdom there is only one authority and that is the King Himself. Religion separates and divides, in the Kingdom all are one under the King. It was in His prayer. “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one: I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me.” John 17:20-23
 
The only division is between the Kingdom and the world. When you seek the Kingdom first, you will discover that you are separating from the world and all that is connected to it. Hear what the Lord Jesus said:  “I came to send fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! But I have a baptism to be baptized with, and how distressed I am till it is accomplished! Do you suppose that I came to give peace on earth? I tell you, not at all, but rather division. For from now on five in one house will be divided: three against two, and two against three. Father will be divided against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.” Luke 12:49-53
 
Question to consider:  Do you find that there are many in your family that are religious but fail to live by the King’s Word? They may even have their own “interpretation" of what His Word means. Maybe they have even taken scripture out of context and blended it with the world’s current collective mindset to make it “politically correct”. If you read the four Gospels, you will see that our Lord Jesus was never “politically correct”!
 
When we allow the Holy Spirit to lead and guide us, we will begin to see where we are inline with God’s Word and where we need a course correction.  Jesus answered and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him. He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine but the Father’s who sent Me.
 
These things I have spoken to you while being present with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. John 14:23-26
 
Knowing what the Lord God wants from you, be diligent to read and study God’s constitution everyday. Make time—make it a priority—because it is food and nourishment for your spirit. In order for us to grow in our faith and trust in Him, we must feast on His Word daily. I would be embarrassed if  an ambassador of God’s Kingdom spoke these words to me:  There is much more we would like to say about this, but it is difficult to explain, especially since you are spiritually dull and don’t seem to listen. You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God’s Word. You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food. For someone who lives on milk is still an infant and doesn’t know how to do what is right. Solid food is for those who are mature, who through training have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong. Hebrews 5:11-14 NLT

We are living in a day when it is imperative that we model unity in the Kingdom to the world. One mind, one Word, one purpose--advancing the Kingdom of God throughout our community, our region, our nation and our world! And this gospel of the Kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come. Matthew 24:14
 
Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious oil upon the head, running down on the beard, the beard of Aaron, running down on the edge of his garments. It is like the dew of Hermon, descending upon the mountains of Zion.

For there the Lord commanded the blessing—life forevermore. Psalm 133
 
Remember what I always say—Your greatest asset in the Kingdom is your faith in His Word!

W.R. Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org

All scriptures are New King James translation except where noted.

These articles may only be reproduced, in print or on the internet, if the author's name and website address are sited at the end of the article as originally placed.  Thank you.

​Seek the Kingdom first is a very profound statement. The operative word in that phrase is first. But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Matthew 6:33  Seeking the Kingdom of God isn’t only reading His Word and praying. It is keeping our actions and decisions in line with His Word and principles. Seeking the Kingdom is living a life that reflects the words of King Jesus. When faced with life decisions our first priority is that those decisions line up with His Word. We don’t put our wants and desires above His Word.
 
While the Lord Jesus was here on this earth, He was the most focused and single-minded person who has ever lived. His entire life here on earth was dedicated to teaching the government of the Kingdom of God and what life should look like in His Kingdom.
 
Focus Point:  Even at the young age of twelve, He already knew His purpose and priority. When His earthly parents, Mary and Joseph were relieved to find Him in the temple in Jerusalem after losing him, He responded to them with this statement: So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” Luke 2:48-49

Keep in mind the Lord Jesus had one singular focus, His Father’s priority for sending Him. He never lost sight of it, even on the cross. King Jesus knew His purpose for being here. He was a “man on a mission” as they say and so should we all be! Not knowing your purpose and priority will cause you to drift through life with no focus or sense of the Lord God’s plan for your life. Days will just slip away without focus and purpose. In many cases, people who are unaware of their purpose, assignment and priorities in the Lord God’s plan for their lives latch on to other people’s ideas and wishes. In most cases it has nothing to do with the King’s plan for their life. Misplaced priorities result in wasting life pursuing the wrong things and carrying on the wrong assignment. That leads to feeling unfulfilled, as though something is “missing” from life.
 
Please note: An absence of priorities in this life accomplishes nothing in the end; while a life of misplaced priorities may bring successes but not in the way the Holy Spirit (the Governor) leads. As Jesus told His disciples, “There is so much more I want to tell you, but you can’t bear it now. When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on His own but will tell you what He has heard. He will tell you about the future. He will bring Me glory by telling you whatever He receives from Me. John 16:12-14 NLT
 
There is nothing more disappointing and tragic than not knowing the Lord God’s purpose for your life. Purpose is the source of your priorities. Purpose is defined as the original cause, reason and intent for the creation of a thing.  In essence, purpose is the meaning of why something or someone was created. Where purpose is not known, misuse or abuse is inevitable. When you know why the Lord God placed you here, have your priorities in order, and are focused on those priorities, no one will be able to distract you or take advantage of you!
 
Focus Point: Before all that can come to pass, He must get your attention because most of us are so preoccupied with other things, as it was with Saul (ambassador Paul): Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.
 
As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?”
 
And he said, “Who are You, Lord?”
 
Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.”
 
So he, trembling and astonished, said, “Lord, what do You want me to do?”

Then the Lord said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
 
And the men who journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice but seeing no one. Then Saul arose from the ground, and when his eyes were opened he saw no one. But they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank. Acts 9:1-9
 
Once He has your attention (hopefully without blinding!) He will show you your purpose and assignment.  Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, “Ananias.”
 
And he said, “Here I am, Lord.”
 
So the Lord said to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.”
 
Then Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.”
 
But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.”
 
And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized.  So when he had received food, he was strengthened. Then Saul spent some days with the disciples at Damascus. Acts 9:10-19
 
Please note: There are times when the Lord God has to allow things to happen to you so that He may get your attention. That is because most people are self-absorbed and focused on their own affairs.  And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them.  For God knew His people in advance, and He chose them to become like His Son, so that His Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And having chosen them, He called them to come to Him. And having called them, He gave them right standing with himself. And having given them right standing, He gave them His glory. Romans 8:28-30 NLT
 
Remember, your faith in the Lord Jesus is your greatest asset in the Kingdom.

​W.R. Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org

All scriptures are New King James except where noted.

These articles may only be reproduced, in print or on the internet, if the author's name and website address are sited at the end of the article as originally placed.  Thank you

Get wisdom!
Get understanding! 
Do not forget, nor turn away from the words of my mouth. Do not forsake her, and she will preserve you; love her, and she will keep you. Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding. Proverbs 4:5-7 To get wisdom and understanding we first need the leading of the Holy Spirit. We also should understand ourselves and our history.

Psychologists say there are three basic needs in all human beings: The need to belong; the need for significance; and the need for reasonable security. They say that approximately ninety-five percent of delinquencies among youth come out of broken homes, lacking a strong foundation. By the way, I was one of them. When the security of a home is broken up, the youth feels that he or she doesn't belong, so they turn to the streets or gangs and become delinquent. A delinquent youth is defined as one who does not conform to the legal or moral standards of society; it usually applies only to acts that, if performed by an adult, would be termed criminal. There is a Chinese proverb which says, "In a broken nest there is no whole egg". 

I study many different cultures through online videos. What I have learned is that a rogue elephant is a lot like a delinquent. The rogue elephant in Burma or India are elephants who have been put out of the herd by younger males. They then turn rogue, tearing up huts, gardens, villages and anything in their path. Why? Because they don't belong and have no boundaries.

​Please note, the central and acute sickness of this age is that people feel they just don't belong--they don't belong to anything of significance. We must belong to something that gives us a sense of belonging and a sense of significance and eternal security, now and forever. The Lord God promised us eternal life if we only believe in His Son.  For this is how God loved the world: He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16  The Lord Jesus came here to bring a Kingdom government, not a religion called Christianity. Why doesn't the church teach the Kingdom of God as our government, as it is in heaven? The church lost it. They lost the understanding of the government of heaven and created a religion around our Lord Jesus. Let's look at the role of tragedies in history and the loss of the Kingdom. 

Take Israel, when it was said to them: 'The stone that the builders rejected has now become the cornerstone. This is the Lord’s doing, and it is wonderful to see.’ I tell you, the Kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a nation that will produce the proper fruit. Matthew 21:42-43 That refusal on the part of Israel began the long tragedy of a frustrated nation. 

Take the Crusades. Men of violence tried to advance the Kingdom by force and succeeded in laying the foundations of hate and conflict for centuries to come. Marco Polo brought an invitation from Kublai Khan to the Pope, imploring him to send a hundred teachers of science and religion to reinforce the Christianity already present in his vast empire. Marco Polo, hastened back to the Pope with this invitation, but it was two years before they sent only two teachers with this message, "Become politically attached to Rome". They didn't teach them about the Kingdom of God which is available to all who will receive this message. Instead, they offered a political and ecclesiastical attachment to Rome. Of course, Kublai Khan turned it down and accepted Islam; spreading blood, fire and a hateful faith throughout Asia and Europe.  Another missed opportunity for the church to spread the Kingdom. 

When Russia was in the throes of a revolution, instead of the church offering the Kingdom of God, a church council was debating the question of whether garments of a certain color should be used in a certain church service. Distractions for the true calling of the church! Again the church chose religious traditions  and trivialities over spreading the Kingdom of God to a nation in crisis. Remember what our King Jesus stated in Luke 12:22-32:  Then, turning to His disciples, Jesus said, “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food to eat or enough clothes to wear. For life is more than food, and your body more than clothing. Look at the ravens. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to Him than any birds! Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? And if worry can’t accomplish a little thing like that, what’s the use of worrying over bigger things?

“Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, He will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?

“And don’t be concerned about what to eat and what to drink. Don’t worry about such things. These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and He will give you everything you need.

“So don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom." 

​Nations rise against nations, kingdoms fall and governments change. Especially in those times of chaos and upheaval, the gospel of the Kingdom of God needs to be shared with all those who will listen and receive. For it is the Gospel of the Kingdom of God that gives that stability and security, no matter what is going on in earthly kingdoms and governments. Being a citizen of the Kingdom of God fulfills the need to belong, the need for significance and the need for security. They are all found in our relationship with King Jesus, our Lord and Savior. The battles for "race" superiority, culture clashes and denominational conflicts are all nothing more than distractions that cause us to miss seeing the Kingdom of God. 

Yes, we missed it. We missed it because we have allowed trivial thing to grab our attention and prevent us from seeing the Kingdom of God as our heavenly government operating in us in this fallen world. It is time for Kingdom citizens to sharpen their focus and lock in on God's Kingdom. Then spread it throughout your community. They need us to keep focused! There is no chaos in the Kingdom of God. 

​Remember, your greatest asset is your faith in the King.

W.R. Luchie
D. Arlene Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org
 
This article may only be reproduced, in print or on the internet, if the author's name and website address are included at the end of the article as originally placed.  Thank you

From the very moment Adam failed to keep the Father's command, this world fell out of favor with their Creator, the Lord God. Then came his punishment: And to the man He said, “Since you listened to your wife and ate from the tree whose fruit I commanded you not to eat, the ground is cursed because of you. All your life you will struggle to scratch a living from it. It will grow thorns and thistles for you, though you will eat of its grains. By the sweat of your brow will you have food to eat until you return to the ground from which you were made. For you were made from dust, and to dust you will return.” Genesis 2:17-19 

It is because of that failure to treat the Lord God's Word as top priority that we are in this situation.  The Lord God placed the man in the Garden of Eden to tend and watch over it. But the Lord God warned him, “You may freely eat the fruit of every tree in the garden—except the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. If you eat its fruit, you are sure to die.” Genesis 2:15-17 He listened to the message that the devil passed on to the serpent and then to his wife (companion). Note the procession. The devil never approached the man, but came through the woman. 

The serpent was the shrewdest of all the wild animals the Lord God had made. One day he asked the woman, “Did God really say you must not eat the fruit from any of the trees in the garden?”

“Of course we may eat fruit from the trees in the garden,” the woman replied. “It’s only the fruit from the tree in the middle of the garden that we are not allowed to eat. God said, ‘You must not eat it or even touch it; if you do, you will die.’”

“You won’t die!” the serpent replied to the woman. “God knows that your eyes will be opened as soon as you eat it, and you will be like God, knowing both good and evil.” Genesis 3:1-5 ​

By the way, that is a conversation that should never have taken place. The Lord God gave Adam specific orders and Adam passed it on to his wife. Notice, at no time did the devil ever approach the man directly, but through a second and third party. It was Adam's responsibility to make sure that the Lord God's orders were followed through. It was Adam's responsibility to convey the Lord God's orders to those under him. It was Eve's responsibility to follow those orders given by her husband, believing it was from the God.

This order can only happen in this fallen world when the husband and wife are filled with the Spirit of the Lord God. Otherwise it will be filled with chaos as we see it today. Notice, the Lord God called out the man first:  Then the Lord God called to the man, “Where are you?” Genesis 3:9 Please understand this one thing: The Lord God does all things decently and in order. That is why it is so important to keep reading and studying God's Constitution. In this world, the enemy will continue throwing all manner of distractions at you to keep you from focusing on the Father's purpose for your life. He doesn't have to "take you out", he only has to keep you distracted and unfocused! Now I want you to notice that all things were put under Adam's authority. That is why the serpent was punished as well. He failed to obey the command that Adam received from his Father and Creator. 

Keep in mind, being in a fallen world, the enemy (the devil) will use any means at his disposal to keep you in chaos and disobedience to the Lord God's Word; for it is His Word that gives you abundant life. The Lord Jesus made that very plain when speaking to the crowd. When King Jesus characterized Himself as the Good Shepherd, here is what He said: The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep. John 10:10-11 NKJV

​​It is because we live in a fallen world that we have murders, pain, strife, adultery, gender confusion, and all manner of evil and perversion. The Kingdom and the fallen world are completely separate. Don’t team up with those who are unbelievers. How can righteousness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness? What harmony can there be between Christ and the devil? How can a believer be a partner with an unbeliever? And what union can there be between God’s temple and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. 2 Corinthians 6:14-16 It is because this is a fallen world that there are wars around the world. It is because this is a fallen world that religion separated the people of the Lord God! Even as I write this article, the evil one is on the attack. Don't be surprised of what you hear or see these days, for the devil knows his time isn't long here and he is getting desperate. 

Do you think that King Jesus came to this fallen world to bring peace and harmony? He did not. Read here what He said about that: "I have come to set the world on fire, and I wish it were already burning! I have a terrible baptism of suffering ahead of Me, and I am under a heavy burden until it is accomplished. Do you think I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I have come to divide people against each other! From now on families will be split apart, three in favor of Me, and two against—or two in favor and three against. ‘Father will be divided against son and son against father; mother against daughter and daughter against mother; and mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.’” Luke 12:49-53 Those are the words of King Jesus!

Some may think, how can that be?! Briefly, the people in this world who aren't filled with the Governor--the Holy Spirit--can't tolerate those who are. The Holy Spirit is our way out of this fallen world, even as we continue to reside in it. It is how we may be "in this world, but not of this world". The devil has no place or entrance into the Kingdom of God. That is why, in the Kingdom of God there is no chaos!

Remember that your faith in the Word of God is your greatest asset in the Kingdom.

 ​All NLT except where noted

​~~W.R. Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org
 
This article may only be reproduced, in print or on the internet, if the author's name and website address are included at the end of the article as originally placed.  Thank you

There are many Believers who haven't yet found their purpose or assignment.  When the Lord Jesus saved you, it wasn't just to attend church and it certainly wasn't just "fire insurance", as some say.  Your salvation was just the beginning.  He has a purpose for your life that is inline with His will for your life.  Regardless of your past, He will preserve you until the appointed time when He will make your assignment known to you.

Preserve means 1. to keep safe from injury, harm or destruction; to protect and 2. to keep up and reserve for personal or special use.  ​Please know that if the King has a special purpose for your life, that purpose and assignment comes with His protection.  I can personally testify to that statement.  Another example is ambassador Paul.  He was a "bad man" but the Lord Jesus preserved him for His purpose and gave him an assignment.  His name at first was Saul.  Read a little about His past.  It was Saul who assisted in the stoning of Stephen.  The Jewish leaders were infuriated by Stephen’s accusation, and they shook their fists at him in rage. But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed steadily into heaven and saw the glory of God, and he saw Jesus standing in the place of honor at God’s right hand.  And he told them, “Look, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing in the place of honor at God’s right hand!”

Then they put their hands over their ears and began shouting. They rushed at him and dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. His accusers took off their coats and laid them at the feet of a young man named Saul.

As they stoned him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”  He fell to his knees, shouting, “Lord, don’t charge them with this sin!” And with that, he died.

Once again, Saul was a bad man.  He led many citizens of the Kingdom to be persecuted.  Meanwhile, Saul was uttering threats with every breath and was eager to kill the Lord’s followers. So he went to the high priest.  He requested letters addressed to the synagogues in Damascus, asking for their cooperation in the arrest of any followers of the Way he found there. He wanted to bring them—both men and women—back to Jerusalem in chains. 

Keep in mind, when the Lord Jesus sent His disciples out by twos, He stated: Jesus sent out the twelve apostles with these instructions: “Don’t go to the Gentiles or the Samaritans..."  That was because He had Saul, who was later to be called Paul, to become the ambassador (or apostle) to the Gentile nation.  It was while Saul was in the midst of persecuting Believers that the Lord Jesus interrupted Saul.   Meanwhile, Saul was uttering threats with every breath and was eager to kill the Lord’s followers. So he went to the high priest.  He requested letters addressed to the synagogues in Damascus, asking for their cooperation in the arrest of any followers of the Way he found there. He wanted to bring them—both men and women—back to Jerusalem in chains.

As he was approaching Damascus on this mission, a light from heaven suddenly shone down around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting Me?”

“Who are you, lord?” Saul asked.

And the voice replied, “I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting!  Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”  First, the Lord Jesus had to get his attention.  Then He sent Saul where he would get his assignment: Now there was a believer in Damascus named Ananias. The Lord spoke to him in a vision, calling, “Ananias!”

“Yes, Lord!” he replied.

The Lord said, “Go over to Straight Street, to the house of Judas. When you get there, ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul. He is praying to Me right now.  I have shown him a vision of a man named Ananias coming in and laying hands on him so he can see again.”

“But Lord,” exclaimed Ananias, “I’ve heard many people talk about the terrible things this man has done to the believers in Jerusalem!  And he is authorized by the leading priests to arrest everyone who calls upon your name.”

But the Lord said, “Go, for Saul is my chosen instrument to take My message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel. And I will show him how much he must suffer for My name’s sake.”

So Ananias went and found Saul. He laid his hands on him and said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, has sent me so that you might regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Instantly something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he got up and was baptized.  Afterward he ate some food and regained his strength. 
​
Keep in mind, when the Lord God has a purpose for you He will protect and guide you.  He will preserve you for His purpose for your life. Did you notice that when the Lord Jesus got Saul's attention, he recognized who He was and addressed Him accordingly?   As he was approaching Damascus on this mission, a light from heaven suddenly shone down around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?”

“Who are you, lord?” Saul asked.

And the voice replied, “I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting!

The Lord Jesus had preserved Saul for His purpose long before Saul was ever aware of it.  Certainly long before his name was changed from Saul to Paul.  Having said that, the Lord God has a purpose for your life as well as an assignment. First you have to submit your will to His Will through the Governor--Holy Spirit--and He will guide you to all truth.  “If you love me, obey My commandments.  And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you.  He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive Him, because it isn’t looking for Him and doesn’t recognize Him. But you know Him, because He lives with you now and later will be in you."  He will be with us every step of the way.  No, I will not abandon you as orphans—I will come to you.  Saul wasn't looking for God's purpose for his life.  He thought punishing and killing Believers in Jesus was his purpose...until that fateful day on the road to Damascus when Jesus stopped him in his sin and gave him his assignment!

Remember, your faith in His Word is your greatest asset in His Kingdom.

Acts 7:54-59, 9:1-2   Matthew 10:5   Acts 9:1-6, 10-18, 9:3-5
John 14:14-17, 18   All NLT unless noted

~~W.R. Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org
 
This article may only be reproduced, in print or on the internet, if the author's name and website address are included at the end of the article as originally placed.  Thank you

A Kingdom mentality has everything to do with total faith in the King and His Kingdom.  

Now, what do I mean by "mentality"?  1.  The mode or way a person thinks; 2. The mental power or the capacity to think--intelligence.  When you were born again by His Spirit, you became a brand new individual. The real you--meaning the spirit man--became a citizen of the Kingdom of God.  Do you recall what the Lord Jesus said to the teacher who came to Him after dark one night?  There was a man named Nicodemus, a Jewish religious leader who was a Pharisee.  After dark one evening, he came to speak with Jesus. “Rabbi,” he said, “we all know that God has sent You to teach us. Your miraculous signs are evidence that God is with You.”

Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God.”  Take note of King Jesus' statement to the religious ruler!  Having a Kingdom mentality requires us to be filled with the Holy Spirit--our Governor.  Being born again by His Spirit makes us a genuine citizen of the Kingdom.  Then you will seek to please the King at all times.  We as citizens of the Kingdom of the Lord God should always be seeking to know about His constitution--God's Word.  One of the writers in His constitution--the Bible--made this statement:  Their hearts are dull and stupid, but I delight in Your instructions.  My suffering was good for me, for it taught me to pay attention to Your decrees.  We should always be mindful of who created us and why we exist.  ​Your instructions are more valuable to me than millions in gold and silver.  You made me; You created me.  Now give me the sense to follow Your commands.  

Having a Kingdom mentality is what separates us from the religious community.  Those of us who have a Kingdom mentality put our faith completely in His Word and lean on Him for everything.  Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.  Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.  

We, who have a Kingdom mentality, feed off of His Word.  We know our priority.  Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need.   

Those who have a Kingdom mentality, walk this earth knowing that we are in this world system but definitely not of it.  Read what the Lord Jesus prayed to His Father:   “I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in Me through their message.  I pray that they will all be one, just as You and I are One—as You are in Me, Father, and I am in You. And may they be in Us so that the world will believe You sent Me.

“I have given them the glory You gave Me, so they may be one as We are one.  I am in them and You are in Me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that You sent Me and that You love them as much as You love Me.  Father, I want these whom You have given Me to be with Me where I am. Then they can see all the glory You gave Me because You loved Me even before the world began!

“O righteous Father, the world doesn’t know You, but I do; and these disciples know You sent Me.  I have revealed You to them, and I will continue to do so. Then Your love for Me will be in them, and I will be in them.”  Notice the Lord Jesus used the term...I pray that they will all be one, just as You and I are One—as You are in Me, Father, and I am in You. And may they be in Us... In other words, there is no division between the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.  One of the main characteristics of a religious denomination is division from other Believers.  Religion uses laws and doctrines to be separate from other Believers.  It is not a reflection of the scriptures we just read.  It is very difficult and quite rare for them to have a Kingdom mentality because of this.  Keep in mind, Kingdom citizens honor and serve King Jesus.  Kingdom citizens are led by the Holy Spirit--our Governor.  They worship the Lord God in spirit and in truth. Worship should not feed our emotions but our spirit.  Worship honors the Lord.   But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship Him that way.  For God is Spirit, so those who worship Him must worship in spirit and in truth.” 

Having a Kingdom mentality requires reading, studying and meditating on His Word as a lifestyle.  As in a marriage, truly knowing someone is what creates oneness.

Once again, remember, your greatest asset in the Kingdom is your faith in the King.

John 3:1-3   Psalm 119:70-73   Proverbs 3:5-6   Matthew 6:33
John 17:20-26   John 4:23-24
All NLT unless noted otherwise

​~~W.R. Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org
 
This article may only be reproduced, in print or on the internet, if the author's name and website address are included at the end of the article as originally placed.  Thank you

The Lord God placed the man in the Garden of Eden to tend and watch over it. But the Lord God warned him, “You may freely eat the fruit of every tree in the garden—except the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. If you eat its fruit, you are sure to die.”  When God gave this command to man (Adam), Eve had not yet been created.  Adam received this word directly from God, then when Eve was added to his life, Adam instructed Eve. 

The Father gave Adam the responsibility for teaching his wife, meaning the woman, and everyone else who came after him.  He was responsible for instructing them all that the Lord God had told him.  Keep in mind that this same pattern is repeated with each new family.  By the way, this is clearly seen in the Lord God's interactions with Abraham. “Should I hide my plan from Abraham?” the Lord asked.  “For Abraham will certainly become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth will be blessed through him.  I have singled him out so that he will direct his sons and their families to keep the way of the Lord by doing what is right and just. Then I will do for Abraham all that I have promised.”   We as husbands and fathers have a responsibility to take charge of the leadership of our families and instruct our wives and children and lead them in line with the Lord God's Word.  Remember, the commands of the Lord God were taught by Abraham to his household and the generations after him.  This is why it is so important for us to stay in the Word.  If a man takes the responsibility of being the teacher and instructor in his home, he attracts the Lord God's favor and blessing in his life.  The man's function as a father and teacher fulfills the Lord God's purpose for his life.  Since the father is the source, everyone who comes out of him must look to him for instruction.  

The evil one will try to cause you to lose focus, but keep this in mind:  the Lord God teaches the father to teach the future generations.  It is our responsibility to teach our wives and children the Kingdom message, not the pastor or any other religious leader.  We as fathers are supposed to be filled with the Holy Spirit--our Governor--who is the ultimate teacher and instructor.    “If you love me, obey my commandments.  And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you.  He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive Him, because it isn’t looking for Him and doesn’t recognize Him. But you know Him, because He lives with you now and later will be in you."  While here on this earth, King Jesus said that He would be with us and in us, meaning the Holy Spirit.  By the way, He is the true teacher. 

Take another look at Adam and Eve.  She was taken out of Adam, not the other way around.  Then the Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper who is just right for him.”  So the Lord God formed from the ground all the wild animals and all the birds of the sky. He brought them to the man to see what he would call them, and the man chose a name for each one.  He gave names to all the livestock, all the birds of the sky, and all the wild animals. But still there was no helper just right for him.

So the Lord God caused the man to fall into a deep sleep. While the man slept, the Lord God took out one of the man’s ribs and closed up the opening.  Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib, and He brought her to the man.

“At last!” the man exclaimed.  “This one is bone from my bone, and flesh from my flesh!  She will be called ‘woman,’ because she was taken from ‘man.’”

This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.  Keep in mind, Eve was designed to be a receiver, as all women are. But she received wrong information when she listened to the wrong source.  She listened to Satan, who came to her in the form of a serpent in order to deceive her.  The male is the giver and the female is the receiver and incubator.  That is why it is a grave sin for two men to live together as husband and wife. The same goes for two women who live together as husband and wife.  It goes against the nature of the Lord God who created them male and female.  Keep in mind, these are the Lord God's standards and principles, as well as His law and if you are a true citizen of the Kingdom in good standing, you will embrace them.  Read what the constitution states in the book of Leviticus:   “Do not practice homosexuality, having sex with another man as with a woman. It is a detestable sin.

“A man must not defile himself by having sex with an animal. And a woman must not offer herself to a male animal to have intercourse with it. This is a perverse act."  Those are our King's words and laws and the world hates to hear it and be reminded of it.  I realize that we live in a fallen world.  That is why it is so important for us to be filled with His Spirit and most importantly, to allow Him to lead and guide you.  I realize there are a shortage of real men in the home and even those that are there fall far short of God's Kingdom standards.  However that is a topic for another time!  Just because the majority don't fulfill their purpose and responsibility, doesn't change God's commands and assignments

Remember, your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is your greatest asset in the Kingdom.

Genesis 2:15-17; 18:17-19   John 14:15-17   Genesis 2:18-24
Leviticus 18:22-23
​All NLT except where noted.

~~W.R. Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org
 
This article may only be reproduced, in print or on the internet, if the author's name and website address are included at the end of the article as originally placed.  Thank you

The source of your purpose comes from the Creator of your existence.  In the beginning was God...  The Lord God's transformation of your life was for His divine purpose.  If you notice, I stated for His divine purpose, not yours or anyone else's.  

This is a fallen world and all of us are born into a world of sin--disobedience.  It takes a new birth for us to discover our divine purpose.  Not something of our own design or making, but His purpose, for which we were created.  The Lord Jesus made that very clear when He spoke to the religious ruler:  Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God.”

“What do you mean?” exclaimed Nicodemus. “How can an old man go back into his mother’s womb and be born again?”

Jesus replied, “I assure you, no one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit. 

There are many people who have a purpose and are on an assignment, but the question is "what is the purpose and who gave the assignment?".  Some even claim it is a divine purpose, but if it is not the Lord God's will for your life, it isn't divine.  What mankind does on this earth is of a temporary nature.  Building tall buildings, setting sports records, producing blockbuster movies, building financial empires, are all temporary.  Read what King Solomon says:  I said to myself, “Come on, let’s try pleasure. Let’s look for the ‘good things’ in life.”

But I found that this, too, was meaningless.  So I said, “Laughter is silly. What good does it do to seek pleasure?” 

After much thought, I decided to cheer myself with wine. And while still seeking wisdom, I clutched at foolishness. In this way, I tried to experience the only happiness most people find during their brief life in this world.

I also tried to find meaning by building huge homes for myself and by planting beautiful vineyards.  I made gardens and parks, filling them with all kinds of fruit trees. I built reservoirs to collect the water to irrigate my many flourishing groves.  I bought slaves, both men and women, and others were born into my household. I also owned large herds and flocks, more than any of the kings who had lived in Jerusalem before me.  I collected great sums of silver and gold, the treasure of many kings and provinces. I hired wonderful singers, both men and women, and had many beautiful concubines. I had everything a man could desire!

So I became greater than all who had lived in Jerusalem before me, and my wisdom never failed me.  Anything I wanted, I would take. I denied myself no pleasure. I even found great pleasure in hard work, a reward for all my labors.  But as I looked at everything I had worked so hard to accomplish, it was all so meaningless—like chasing the wind. There was nothing really worthwhile anywhere.

When you fail to discover your divine purpose for your life, you fall prey to other people's ideas and their agenda.  There is nothing more depressing than a hopeless view of this life.  That is a viewpoint that is shared by countless people in this life.  The Lord God's purpose is the basis of His creation.   The Lord God's Constitution teaches us that He does everything in union with a purpose in His heart.  There is always a reason--a purpose for everything God does.   The Lord frustrates the plans of the nations and thwarts all their schemes.  But the Lord’s plans stand firm forever; His intentions can never be shaken.  What joy for the nation whose God is the Lord,  whose people He has chosen as His inheritance.  ​

Earlier in the creation records, the constitution tells us that the Lord God not only created things by speaking them into existence, but also gave each creation a purpose.  Therefore everything has a God-given purpose and assignment.  Take a look at the sky.  It was created to separate the water above its expanse from the water beneath it.  Then God said, “Let there be a space between the waters, to separate the waters of the heavens from the waters of the earth.” And that is what happened. God made this space to separate the waters of the earth from the waters of the heavens.  God called the space “sky.”  

So how do you discover His divine purpose for your life?  Stay focused on His Word and spend time communing with Him in prayer.  Ambassador James stated it like this:  So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.  Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world.

You can make many plans, but the Lord’s purpose will prevail.

It takes a transformed mind to understand the purpose that He has for your life.  It takes total submission to the will of the Governor--the Holy Spirit.  Body, soul and spirit have to be in submission to His leading.  And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all He has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind He will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship Him.  Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.  Be transformed by changing the way you think or "by the renewing of your mind".  That is a process and it is also  a principle for discovering your purpose, your divine purpose in this life.  If your mind is filled with the world and all it's noise and clutter, you will never be able to see that divine purpose.  Clear out the clutter in your mind and fill it with His Word and you will see clearly again!

Keep this in mind, the Lord God perseveres in His purpose for mankind.  He still yearns to be our Father and to have us to choose to be His loving and faithful children.  The Lord Jesus is His plan to restore His children to His loving embrace.  His purpose is to destroy the works of the enemy.  Dear children, don’t let anyone deceive you about this: When people do what is right, it shows that they are righteous, even as Christ is righteous. But when people keep on sinning, it shows that they belong to the devil, who has been sinning since the beginning. But the Son of God came to destroy the works of the devil.  Those who have been born into God’s family do not make a practice of sinning, because God’s life is in them. So they can’t keep on sinning, because they are children of God.  So now we can tell who are children of God and who are children of the devil. Anyone who does not live righteously and does not love other believers does not belong to God. 

Remember, King David served the Lord God's purpose, not his own.   “For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell asleep, was buried with his fathers, and saw corruption" NKJV  The Lord God has created everything with a purpose and your closer walk with Him will lead you to discover your purpose.

Remember, your faith in His Word is your greatest asset in His Kingdom.

John 3:3-5   Ecclesiastes 2:1-11   Psalm 33:10-12   Genesis 1:6-8
James 4:7-8   Proverbs 19:21   Romans 12:1-2   1 John 3:7-10

All NLT except where noted.

​~~W.R. Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org
 
This article may only be reproduced, in print or on the internet, if the author's name and website address are included at the end of the article as originally placed.  Thank you

This present world is in a serious crisis.  The other day I read about a religious organization that voted to stop using masculine pronouns for God.  That is a clear version of a worldly, religious mindset.  This is just one example of an agenda to belittle and remove males and fathers from our society.  Remember, the Lord God created man after His own image.  Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” NKJV  

​All fathers are male and masculine, anything short of that is abnormal--against God's plan for the family.  A father is a developer of his family, that he was created for.  The word developer means to cause to grow gradually and continually in larger, fuller and better ways. 

Consider what ambassador Paul stated in his first letter to the Corinthians:  ​After all, who is Apollos? Who is Paul? We are only God’s servants through whom you believed the Good News. Each of us did the work the Lord gave us. I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow.  It’s not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What’s important is that God makes the seed grow.  The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. And both will be rewarded for their own hard work.  For we are both God’s workers. And you are God’s field. You are God’s building.  We should always give the Lord God the praise for His goodness to us.  When you know the Lord God's purpose for your life, you will be the target of the evil one, especially when you are on your assignment.  To truly understand the father as the one who develops the family, you must return again to the garden of Eden and remember the Lord God's instructions to Adam.  The Lord God placed the man in the Garden of Eden to tend and watch over it.  Notice that Adam was alone at that time.  Eve hadn't been created as of yet. The Lord God gave this command to Adam, created in God's image.  And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, “Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.”  NKJV

Here are some characteristics of development: Planning, preparing, planting and protecting.   Then the Lord God planted a garden in Eden in the east, and there He placed the man He had made. The Lord God made all sorts of trees grow up from the ground—trees that were beautiful and that produced delicious fruit.   Your family is the crop God has given you responsibility over.  Father, as developer, oversees planning, preparing, planting and protecting in his family.  Every farmer who develops a crop uses whatever means necessary to protect his crop and to guard against insects, diseases, thieves and vandals.  Obeying the Lord God's Word was protection for them.  Then the Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it.  And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, “Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.” NKJV 

Another characteristic is being able to produce.  Keep in mind that once the farmer grows a crop, he doesn't just leave it in the field.  He harvests it because he has produced fruits or vegetables that can be sold and used. There is a purpose for the harvest.  There is a God given order and process.  Seed, time and harvest.  There is also a God given order and process to procreation.  This is why two man can't have children or two women can't have children.  It takes a man and a woman to be able to produce children. Two women or two men might decide to raise a child together, but they cannot "make" a baby together. That is the way the Lord God created it to be for all of mankind.  Anything else the Lord God calls an abomination.  You shall not lie with a male as with a woman. It is an abomination. Nor shall you mate with any animal, to defile yourself with it. Nor shall any woman stand before an animal to mate with it. It is perversion. NKJV   Then He said to the woman, “I will sharpen the pain of your pregnancy, and in pain you will give birth.  And you will desire to control your husband, but he will rule over you.”

The Lord Jesus made it very clear:  But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted! When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.  Just as the Father, our earthly father develops his family--his wife and children.  He plans their growth in every aspect of life:  physically, intellectually, emotionally and of course spiritually.  Do not mistake this responsibility for control.  A father doesn't control and force his plan on his family any more than God the Father forces His will upon His children.  It is prepared and placed before them to choose.  

Development creates an environment that is conducive to learning experiences under the guidance of a father who is filled with the wisdom of the living God through the Holy Spirit.  What does an environment that encourages development and growth look like?  Well, the father edifies his offspring. Ambassador Paul wrote to the Corinthians: We pray to God that you will not do what is wrong by refusing our correction. I hope we won’t need to demonstrate our authority when we arrive. Do the right thing before we come—even if that makes it look like we have failed to demonstrate our authority.  For we cannot oppose the truth, but must always stand for the truth.  We are glad to seem weak if it helps show that you are actually strong. We pray that you will become mature.

I am writing this to you before I come, hoping that I won’t need to deal severely with you when I do come. For I want to use the authority the Lord has given me to strengthen you, not to tear you down.  Instead of criticism, a father like our heavenly Father, gives constructive correction.  I will say that I did not learn this until later in life.  Thank You Lord for Your grace and mercy!  We who are strong must be considerate of those who are sensitive about things like this. We must not just please ourselves. 

A father understands that some of the most significant learning experiences in life results from some kind of failure.  Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.  For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.  So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.  

Last, a father understands that the only standard for life is Jesus the Christ, the Son of the living God.    For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in His steps.  He never sinned, nor ever deceived anyone.  He did not retaliate when He was insulted, nor threaten revenge when He suffered.  He left His case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly.  He personally carried our sins in His body on the cross so that we can be dead to sin and live for what is right.  By His wounds you are healed.

Keep this in mind, every family member is a unique child of the Lord God.  Each has a unique and specific purpose for being here.  All fathers, like our heavenly Father, are not to show favoritism.  They are all equal, but different.  Do not squash their destiny under your desires for their future.  When speaking to those in the house of Cornelius, ambassador Peter made it very clear: “I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. In every nation He accepts those who fear Him and do what is right." 

Your faith in the Lord Jesus is your greatest asset in the Kingdom.

Genesis 1:26   1 Corinthians 3:5-9   Genesis 2:15-17   Genesis 2:8-9a
Genesis 3:16  Leviticus 18:22-23    John 15:7-8   2 Corinthians 13:7-10
Romans 15:1  1 Peter 2:21-24   Acts 10:34-35

All NLT, unless noted
 
~~W.R. Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org
 
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