When the Lord God gave Adam instructions not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, it was a command not a suggestion. 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.” Genesis 2:15-17
 
After He made that statement to Adam, He decided to give Adam a compatible assistant—helpmate. In the Thorndike-Barnhart dictionary it describes compatible as:  able to exist or get on well together; agreeing; in harmony. 
 
Please note, when the king speaks, it is never a suggestion. It is a law. Notice that Eve wasn’t made at the same time as was Adam. It was later that the Lord and Creator decided to make Adam’s helper.  And the Lord God said, “It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.” Genesis 2:18 Keep this in mind:  The Creator’s Word is law and it demands obedience. It was because of one man’s disobedience that the King recalled the Governor. When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam’s sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned.
 
Yes, people sinned even before the law was given. But it was not counted as sin because there was not yet any law to break. Still, everyone died—from the time of Adam to the time of Moses—even those who did not disobey an explicit commandment of God, as Adam did. Now Adam is a symbol, a representation of Christ, who was yet to come. But there is a great difference between Adam’s sin and God’s gracious gift.
 
For the sin of this one man, Adam, brought death to many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and His gift of forgiveness to many through this other man, Jesus Christ. And the result of God’s gracious gift is very different from the result of that one man’s sin. For Adam’s sin led to condemnation, but God’s free gift leads to our being made right with God, even though we are guilty of many sins. For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and His gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ.
 
Yes, Adam’s one sin brings condemnation for everyone, but Christ’s one act of righteousness brings a right relationship with God and new life for everyone. Because one person disobeyed God, many became sinners. But because one other person obeyed God, many will be made righteous. Romans 5:12-19 NLT
 
There are so many people who claim to love the Lord Jesus, but fail to follow and obey His Word. When we fail to obey or teach others to live by the King’s Word, it is an act of rebellion that leads to sin. When King Saul failed to follow Samuel’s message from the Lord, he was in rebellion against God. Keep in mind, Saul was rejected by the Lord God from being King of Israel. Now the word of the Lord came to Samuel, saying, “I greatly regret that I have set up Saul as king, for he has turned back from following Me, and has not performed My commandments.”
 
And it grieved Samuel, and he cried out to the Lord all night. So when Samuel rose early in the morning to meet Saul, it was told Samuel, saying, “Saul went to Carmel, and indeed, he set up a monument for himself; and he has gone on around, passed by, and gone down to Gilgal.” Then Samuel went to Saul, and Saul said to him, “Blessed are you of the Lord! I have performed the commandment of the Lord.”
1 Samuel 15:10-13 Remember that the Lord God is precise in His Word. Here are His instructions to Saul. 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
 
King Saul did not follow the Lord God’s command. He thought it was better to save the best of everything. Saul even spared the king of the Amalekites! He also took Agag king of the Amalekites alive, and utterly destroyed all the people with the edge of the sword. But Saul and the people spared Agag and the best of the sheep, the oxen, the fatlings, the lambs, and all that was good, and were unwilling to utterly destroy them. But everything despised and worthless, that they utterly destroyed. 1 Samuel 15:8-9
 
Have you ever given your child instructions on what you wanted them to do but they didn’t follow those instructions, but did it “their way”? Well, that is what Saul and his people did. When we disobey the King’s Constitution, it is rebellion against His divine Will. The Lord God instructed Saul to utterly destroy everything and everyone.
 
In his mind, King Saul thought he had obeyed. 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?”
 
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 15:19-21

Either he wasn’t listening well, or he thought he knew better what the Lord God wanted! Then he tried to show he was right by offering up all the best to God. When the King issues a command, we are to follow it to the letter. The Lord God is always precise. Obeying the Lord God’s Word should be our number one priority. Not out of legalism, but out of our love and honor for our Lord and King. Saul thought their sacrifices were the better way to go, but God corrected that. “What is more pleasing to the Lord:  Your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to His voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams. 1 Samuel 15:22 NLT
 
Many people will attend church, participate, give an offering, give to the poor and yet fail to obey and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. This is what the Lord God said about things of such nature:  Hear the Word of the Lord, You rulers of Sodom; Give ear to the law of our God, you people of Gomorrah: “To what purpose is the multitude of your sacrifices to Me?” Says the Lord.

“I have had enough of burnt offerings of rams and the fat of fed cattle. I do not delight in the blood of bulls, or of lambs or goats. When you come to appear before Me, who has required this from your hand, to trample My courts?"

"Bring no more futile sacrifices; Incense is an abomination to Me. The New Moons, the Sabbaths, and the calling of assemblies—I cannot endure iniquity and the sacred meeting. Your New Moons and your appointed feasts My soul hates; They are a trouble to Me, I am weary of bearing them. When you spread out your hands, I will hide My eyes from you; Even though you make many prayers, I will not hear. Your hands are full of blood."
 
“Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean; Put away the evil of your doings from before My eyes. Cease to do evil, learn to do good; seek justice, rebuke the oppressor; Defend the fatherless, Plead for the widow." Isaiah 1:10-17
 
The Lord God’s laws and principles still stand to this day. His character is unchanged. When we refuse to follow and obey His Word we are rebelling against Him. Remember the Word of the Lord spoken through Samuel to King Saul. 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
 
That act of disobedience changed the course of King Saul’s life! Then Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned, for I have transgressed the commandment of the Lord and your words, because I feared the people and obeyed their voice. Now therefore, please pardon my sin, and return with me, that I may worship the Lord.”
 
But Samuel said to Saul, “I will not return with you, for you have rejected the Word of the Lord, and the Lord has rejected you from being king over Israel.” 1 Samuel 15:24-26
 
In any government, we cannot be a citizen in good standing if we are rebellious and fail to follow their laws. May our words and actions always be acceptable to our Lord and King.
 
Remember, your greatest asset is your faith in God’s Word.
 
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
​

​What does it mean to glorify another? To glorify is to make glorious by bestowing honor, praise or admiration to another.

But mankind was never meant to be glorified or praised or lifted up above others. He is the created, not the Creator. 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.” Genesis 1:26 Man should never get what the Lord God deserves. Mankind wasn’t designed to be praised but to praise. King David certainly knew that and made it quite clear in his prayers to the Lord God.
 
Bow down Your ear, O Lord, hear me; For I am poor and needy. Preserve my life, for I am holy; You are my God; Save Your servant who trusts in You! Be merciful to me, O Lord, for I cry to You all day long. Rejoice the soul of Your servant, for to You, O Lord, I lift up my soul.

For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, And abundant in mercy to all those who call upon You. Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer; And attend to the voice of my supplications. In the day of my trouble I will call upon You, for You will answer me. Among the gods there is none like You, O Lord; Nor are there any works like Your works. All nations whom You have made shall come and worship before You, O Lord, and shall glorify Your name. For You are great, and do wondrous things; You alone are God. Teach me Your way, O Lord; I will walk in Your truth; Unite my heart to fear Your name. I will praise You, O Lord my God, with all my heart, And I will glorify Your name forevermore.  Psalm 86:1-12
 
The Lord God uses many people to spread His Kingdom message, but too often people choose to praise the messenger more than the King. Many praise the preacher more than the God he serves. They take their eyes off King Jesus. This is why false teachers and preachers are able to take advantage of the Lord God’s people. Again, mankind wasn’t created or built to be worshiped. We are to encourage and lift people up but not to the point of worship. They must never be placed in a position to be equal or above God in a person’s mind. In my lifetime I have seen some individuals delivered from sickness through the gift of others but it is the Lord God who heals. Yet many people fail to give the King the honor and praise that He deserves. As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ. 2 Corinthians 9:13 NLT
 
So many men praise the woman, singing songs about her that sometimes sound like worship songs. Yet they forget about the One who made her. I love my wife very much, but I never forget who gave her to me. I glorify His name every day of my life and always acknowledge Him in my words, behavior and actions with others.
 
“Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?”

Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. Matthew 22:36-38
 
Kingdom citizens conduct themselves as those who live by their King’s standard. Too many who claim to know the Lord God fail to conduct themselves in accordance with His Word. When His laws and principles become optional, we become merely part of a religious organization. Ambassador Paul put it this way:  But God shows His anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. They know the truth about God because He has made it obvious to them. For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see His invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature.
 
                            So they have no excuse for not knowing God.
 
Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship Him as God or even give Him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused. 
 
                    Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools. 
 
And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people and birds and animals and reptiles.
So God abandoned them to do whatever shameful things their hearts desired. As a result, they did vile and degrading things with each other’s bodies. 
 
                             They traded the truth about God for a lie.
 
So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Romans 1:18-25 NLT
 
Our Lord and King wants all the praise and honor. Take a moment to think of all the things He has delivered you from, people He has brought into your life, and even those He has removed from your life! He will share His glory with no man! I am the Lord, that is My name; And My glory I will not give to another, Nor My praise to carved images. Isaiah 42:8 I will rescue you for my sake—yes, for My own sake! I will not let My reputation be tarnished, and I will not share My glory with idols! Isaiah 48:11 NLT Those are the words of our Lord and King, spoken to His representative Isaiah.
 
Keep in mind, those of us who are filled with His Spirit—meaning reborn—have to learn His ways and develop His standard for living this Kingdom lifestyle. If we want to be led of the Holy Spirit, our Governor, it is imperative that we read and study His Kingdom Constitution. My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I 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 Remember that the Bible is God’s Kingdom Constitution, His testaments to His citizens.
 
The same message applies to us as Kingdom citizens. The Kingdom of the Lord God resides in us. Remember what King Jesus stated when the Pharisees asked “when the Kingdom would come”.  Now when He was asked by the Pharisees when the Kingdom of God would come, He answered them and said, “The Kingdom of God does not come with observation; nor will they say, ‘See here!’ or ‘See there!’ For indeed, the Kingdom of God is within you.” Luke 17:20-21
 
Whenever you hear a message being delivered by a preacher or teacher, give the King the glory and thank Him for the obedience of His ambassador for following the lead of the Holy Spirit. Give the glory and praise to the King, not the messenger. Keep everything in the right perspective. Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of His creatures. James 1:16-18

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

When the Lord Jesus was being questioned by Pilate concerning His Kingdom, this was His response:  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 18:36
 
Keep in mind, when the mob came for Him in the garden of Gethsemane, His disciple Peter drew his sword and cut off the right ear of one of the high priest’s servants. But this was the Lord Jesus’ response:  So Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword into the sheath. Shall I not drink the cup which My Father has given Me?” John 18:11
 
It is not our responsibility to pick up weapons and fight for the Kingdom. God’s Kingdom isn’t of this three dimensional world. Do you recall what the Lord Jesus stated to Peter when he drew his sword to defend Jesus?  But Jesus said to him, “Put your sword in its place, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword. Or do you think that I cannot now pray to My Father, and He will provide Me with more than twelve legions of angels? Matthew 26:52-53 With a Kingdom mindset, the Governor—the Holy Spirit—will bring these verses to your remembrance when needed!
 
Keep in mind that our greatest weapons aren’t physical. I recall what ambassador Paul stated in a letter to the Ephesians. He compared weapons of the Lord God to a Roman soldier’s armor. Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
 
Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints. Ephesians 6:10-18
 
The only offensive weapon is the “sword of the Spirit”—that is the Word of the Lord God. It is vital that citizens of the Kingdom read and study His Word. I hear so many times of Christian believers carry guns and weapons to protect themselves, but if you are following the Lord God’s Constitution you understand that you don’t need such weapons. Don’t get me wrong. I am not against guns, only pointing out that our faith in the Father’s protection should be so strong that we won’t need them. We know without a doubt that nothing can remove us from this earth until that day the Lord has already ordained. He knows our end from our beginning and nothing takes Him by surprise! Remember the things I have done in the past. For I alone am God! I am God, and there is none like me. Only I can tell you the future before it even happens. Everything I plan will come to pass, for I do whatever I wish. Isaiah 46:9-10 NLT
 
             If you walk in the Spirit, you won’t need the things of the flesh.
 
This should be our mindset. The only way we get this mindset is through embracing His Word on a daily basis. King Jesus is the Word made flesh. Then Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in you. Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. For My flesh is food indeed, and My blood is drink indeed. He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood abides in Me, and I in him… 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 6:53-56, 63
 
Every since you were reborn, you weren’t the same person you once were. Your family may not see it right away, but they soon will realize there has been a change in you. They may say you have changed, or you aren’t as “fun” as you used to be. They may approach you as the person you no longer are. You are in their world, but you are no longer of that world. Knowing that is helpful, I can testify! Represent your Kingdom culture in their presence.
 
Our responsibility is to always pray in the Spirit. King Jesus made this statement to His disciples: Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Matthew 26:41 By the way, that was a command, not a request. Too often, people look at scriptures as suggestions or are optional!
 
As citizens of God’s Kingdom, remember that we as saints of the Lord God should stop conducting ourselves as though we are slaves. It is important to understand who you are in the Kingdom. Do you recall what ambassador Paul stated? So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law. Galatians 5:1 NLT And how do we follow His laws but not become slaves to those laws? By understanding that King Jesus fulfilled all the law. It is through Him and the power of the Holy Spirit that we may walk in obedience to His laws and principles. Doing it in our own strength is slavery.  “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
 
              Jesus is our Lord and King. He is the One who gave His life for us.
 
Remember, your faith in His Word is your greatest asset in the 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

How do you live your daily life? Are you living according to the King’s Word and His principles? We are so busy just getting through our day, we do not consider that as we go through that day we are representing our Lord and King. Many fail to follow the King’s Word because they fail to read and study it. Or they may know a scripture but not know it in the context which it was spoken! They rely on a preacher, teacher, Sunday service or midweek Bible study for all their knowledge. But those times should ignite your passion to know more of His Word. It is the responsibility of the preacher to encourage his members to study God’s Word. As ambassador Paul wrote to Timothy:  Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth. 2 Timothy 2:15 
 
It is everyone’s responsibility to read and study God’s Constitution under the guidance of the Holy Spirit—our Kingdom Governor. 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 16:13-15  
 
If you tell people you are a believer in Jesus Christ—if you tell them about God’s Kingdom—they are watching whether your behavior and attitude matches up to what you say. Sadly, some will watch to find sin and error in your life and will feel justified in not believing in Jesus and His Kingdom. We must represent and not misrepresent God and His Kingdom! So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making His appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!” For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:20-21 NLT
 
Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone. Colossians 4:5-6 NLT
 
We want to be like King Jesus, but remember that He was the Word before He was Jesus in a physical body! How can we say we love Jesus but not hunger for His Word? How can we be like the Word if we do not know the Word? We are to consume the Word and make it part of our very being! In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God. God created everything through Him, and nothing was created except through Him. The Word gave life to everything that was created, and His life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it. . . So the Word became human and made His home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen His glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son. John 1:1-5, 14 NLT
 
Every day you live among the world, you are representing the King and His Kingdom. It is foreign to them, and much of what they may know is misinformation or came from religious teachings. Our Kingdom Governor, the Holy Spirit, will lead and guide you to all truth. You are not on your own! When you are living and being guided by the Holy Spirit, you know that you are in line with your King and you know He hears you. “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 14:15-17 When you are living according to the King’s commands, you cannot go wrong.
 
When you allow our Kingdom Governor to lead and guide you, people around you will see the difference. You won’t have to go around announcing yourself and what you believe. They will see Christ through your actions and behavior. They will see Christ in you. Remember that “Christ” means anointed or the anointed one. We are anointed to do whatever He tells us to do by being filled with His Holy Spirit!
 
Keep in mind that while the Lord Jesus was here on this earth, He stayed focused on His mission and assignment. He never got “off-track”. He preached and taught the message of His Kingdom. He never got tied up in this world’s matters. We are to make a difference in others lives. As the King stated:  “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. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16
 
There are some who claim to represent the King who have put a stain on His name in this world. That is because they fail to be guided by the Holy Spirit. They are usually guided by some desire other than seeking God’s Kingdom. When you stay in consistent communication with the Governor, you won’t make a mistake. He will guide you in the way you should go. The more you listen and respond, the more you will recognize His leading. I ought to know because I am a good example of this. I have learned over the years.  Not always right, but always learning and making adjustments. There will be times you will suffer things falsely, but keep in mind that you must represent the King and His King with His Kingdom righteousness! And remember that the Lord God must get the glory!  It is not about us, but all about Him. That is how we are to represent! Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16 Our purpose for being where we are is to show those who are lost that these are the last days and to embrace the King and all His promises. Then let the Holy Spirit do His work and draw them and lead them to repentance. 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 (Question:  Who is the "ruler of this world"?)
 
Our prayer for you today is the same that we pray for ourselves…more wisdom, knowledge and understanding. 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. James 1:5
 
My child, listen to what I say, and treasure My commands. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. Cry out for insight, and ask for understanding. Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures. Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God. For the Lord grants wisdom! From His mouth come knowledge and understanding. He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. He is a shield to those who walk with integrity. Proverbs 2:1-7 NLT
 
Remember, your faith is your most valuable asset in the Kingdom.

W.R. & D. Arlene Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org
 
(Answer:  Satan, of course!)

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

That is a question you should ask yourself. There are many people that are living with pain and infirmities as Arlene and I, and yet we always give thanks to the King. We are always grateful! He is our source and strength.

Please understand that we will not live forever in our present body. That is because of the disobedience of the first man Adam. The Lord God gave His command to Adam: 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.” Genesis 2:16-17 It was a simple law and it was clear what would be the result of disobedience.
 
It is always best to live our life according to His Word. Remember that we live in a fallen world that is filled with demonic forces that don’t want you to live by His Word. Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your family of believers all over the world is going through the same kind of suffering you are. 1 Peter 5:8-9 NLT
 
Ambassador Paul went through many trials and afflictions but look what he had to say:  And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
 
No matter what you may be going through, you should always praise the King and all He has done. Keep your faith focused on the King. Remember the prayer that the Lord Jesus gave us to embrace as our Kingdom foundation. Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your Kingdom come. Your will be done. On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Matthew 6:9-13
 
It is very important that we as Kingdom citizens remember this prayer and follow it. Keep in mind that you are a child and citizen of the King and Living God. The Lord Jesus gave us a promise:  Then Peter said to Him, “We’ve given up everything to follow you. What will we get?”

Jesus replied, “I assure you that when the world is made new and the Son of Man sits upon His glorious throne, you who have been My followers will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or property, for my sake, will receive a hundred times as much in return and will inherit eternal life. But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then.” Matthew 19:27-30 NLT
 
Our desire should be to please Him in everything we do, and to always be in good standing with the King. But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Hebrews 11:6 Yes! His promise is that He will reward those who diligently SEEK Him. There is that word again. . . SEEK!
 
But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Matthew 6:33
 
“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” Matthew 7:7
 
And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13
 
And those who know Your name will put their trust in You; For You, Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You. Psalm 9:9
 
For thus says the Lord to the house of Israel:  “Seek Me and live…” Amos 5:4
 
The young lions lack and suffer hunger; But those who seek the Lord shall not lack any good thing. Psalm 34:10
 
Kingdom citizens live to seek, pursue, and please our Lord and King. And these scriptures show us that in the seeking there is also a promise from the King! It is not the promise that we seek after, but the King. When you are in the Kingdom, you will submit to His Word. You will feel the leading of the Holy Spirit when you put Him first. You also will discover His Will and purpose for your life. You are not on your own when you allow yourself to be led by the Holy Spirit.
 
So the question is, how are you living? Are you living in peace or in pieces? If you would honestly say “in pieces”, search yourself to see what you are truly seeking after. I am at rest in God alone; my salvation comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I will never be shaken. Psalm 62:1-2 HCSB
 
What do you live for? The world seeks and lives for money, fame, success, happiness, love, etc. But we, as Kingdom citizens, must learn to only seek after God’s Kingdom and His righteousness and leave everything else to Him. We seek, He provides. Remember that Jesus is the Word. If you are living by and in His Word, you should never “sweat the small stuff”. There is peace in His promises. These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
 
Once you truly understand this, you will be able to say as ambassador Paul said:  11 Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. 12 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. 13 For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Philippians 4:11-13 NLT People love to quote verse 13, but the power of that verse is found in first embracing verses 11 & 12!
 
Remember, your greatest asset is your faith in the Lord God’s Word.

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

Who is a bridge builder? A bridge to what or whom? Let’s look at Saul—later known as Paul. Saul of Tarsus was appointed to be an ambassador of the Kingdom of God by the Lord Jesus and given his assignment as a bridge builder to the Gentiles. 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.” Acts 9:11-15
 
When you are appointed as a bridge builder, you will be tried and tested. Keep in mind that the Lord Jesus gave Saul a heads up on what he was to suffer.  “For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.” Acts 9:16 It isn't an easy path!
 
He didn’t state to Saul that he would always be comfortable or happy, blessed or prosperous. But when you are doing what the Lord has assigned for you, you have peace with it. King David made this statement:  Many people say, “Who will show us better times?” Let your face smile on us, Lord. You have given me greater joy than those who have abundant harvests of grain and new wine. In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe. Psalm 4:6-8 NLT In other words, when you are in His Will, doing the King’s assignment for your life, you won’t “sweat the small stuff” because you are in His divine will for your life. “You are My servant, I have chosen you and have not cast you away:  Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’  Isaiah 41:9b-10
 
            A bridge builder doesn’t blend in and go along with the status quo.

In God’s Kingdom, a bridge builder is assigned to overcome a gap. It isn’t an easy assignment because sometimes you must say and do things people do not understand or agree with. My wife Arlene and I are bridge builders. We are to span the gap between a religious mindset and a Kingdom mindset. When we started this website, we didn’t realize that we would be bridge builders! 
 
The ultimate bridge builder ever is the Lord Jesus! He bridged the gap between God and mankind. The Lord Jesus came, presenting the Kingdom to the world, not a religion. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14
 
But He said to them, “I must preach the Kingdom of God to the other cities also, because for this purpose I have been sent.” Luke 4:43
 
Somehow the enemy made it a religion in the minds of believers. That is ironic because it was the religious leaders who had the Romans crucify King Jesus. It was the religious leaders that orchestrated the Roman authority to assist in His death. Take a few minutes to read and study. See the difference between religion and God’s Kingdom. They had murder in their hearts and minds toward Jesus but wouldn’t “go into the Praetorium, lest they be defiled and not able to eat Passover"! That is a religious mind.  Then they led Jesus from Caiaphas to the Praetorium, and it was early morning. But they themselves did not go into the Praetorium, lest they should be defiled, but that they might eat the Passover. Pilate then went out to them and said, “What accusation do you bring against this Man?”
 
They answered and said to him, “If He were not an evildoer, we would not have delivered Him up to you.”
 
Then Pilate said to them, “You take Him and judge Him according to your law.”
 
Therefore the Jews said to him, “It is not lawful for us to put anyone to death,” that the saying of Jesus might be fulfilled which He spoke, signifying by what death He would die. Then Pilate entered the Praetorium again, called Jesus, and said to Him, “Are You the King of the Jews?”
 
Jesus answered him, “Are you speaking for yourself about this, or did others tell you this concerning Me?”
 
Pilate answered, “Am I a Jew? Your own nation and the chief priests have delivered You to me. What have You done?”
 
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.”
 
Pilate therefore said to Him, “Are You a king then?”
 
Jesus answered, “You say rightly that I am a king. For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the Truth. Everyone who is of the Truth hears My voice.”

Pilate said to Him, “What is truth?” And when he had said this, he went out again to the Jews, and said to them, “I find no fault in Him at all. But you have a custom that I should release someone to you at the Passover. Do you therefore want me to release to you the King of the Jews?”
 
Then they all cried again, saying, “Not this Man, but Barabbas!” Now Barabbas was a robber. John 18:28-40
 
The Lord Jesus spoke only of His Kingdom, not His religion. That is because a kingdom is a government and the king is the one with all the authority.
 
We as Kingdom citizens are to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit, who is our Kingdom Governor. This is why it is vital to be filled with His Spirit. Kingdom citizens are to lead others to a Kingdom mindset, by being a bridge to those who have a religious mindset. We all at some point in our lives had a religious mindset. Even when we see more clearly how life in God’s Kingdom is, religious traditions will pop up from time to time. But as you take time to seek His Kingdom and with an understanding of being led by the Holy Spirit, that will gradually change. Bridges aren’t built in a day! We don’t have to do it in our own strength!
 
Remember, God’s Kingdom is inside of you and His Kingdom Governor is there to lead and guide you. Remember what King Jesus said to one of the Pharisees concerning the Kingdom:  Now when He was asked by the Pharisees when the Kingdom of God would come, He answered them and said, “The Kingdom of God does not come with observation; nor will they say, ‘See here!’ or ‘See there!’ For indeed, the Kingdom of God is within you.” Luke 17:20-21
 
Know this one thing; you do not become a Kingdom citizen just by attending a church. You may become a citizen of the Kingdom anywhere, even in a desert. It doesn’t matter where you are, only that you are seeking! You must be born again by His Spirit. Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God.” John 3:3 Your spirit must be reborn and submitted to the Holy Spirit.
 
Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the Kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.” John 3:5-8
 
                                              Are you a bridge builder? 

Remember, your greatest asset is your faith in the Lord God’s Word.

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

Kingdom citizens live by their faith in the Lord God’s Word. This is why I always state after my articles that your faith is your greatest asset in the Kingdom, because it is!

Once you truly have faith in someone, you are more likely to do what they ask of you. You will be obedient. This was the case for Abraham: By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. By faith he dwelt in the land of promise as in a foreign country, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise;  for he waited for the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God. Hebrews 11:8-10 All of his actions were based upon his faith in his Lord and King. It is your faith alone that pleases the Lord God. What is more pleasing to the Lord:  Your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to His voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams. I Samuel 15:22 NLT
 
Now take note that it was Enoch’s faith that pleased the King! By faith Enoch was taken away so that he did not see death, “and was not found, because God had taken him”; for before he was taken he had this testimony, that he pleased God. But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Hebrews 11:5-6
 
                            No matter what you do, always remember that 
                              without faith it is impossible to please God!
 
Several weeks ago, I had a dream where I was in pain, but I was instructed to conduct myself as if there was nothing wrong with my body. The Holy Spirit had instructed me to conduct myself as if my body had no pain. I really didn’t understand the dream fully. I was going through some pain with my left leg, but then I started getting pain with my other leg! The whole time I was praying and speaking to my King and Creator. While this was going on, Arlene was being attacked in her body as well. Then I recalled what the Governor told me to do and the words Jesus spoke: (as it is written, “I have made you a father of many nations”) in the presence of Him whom he believed—God, who gives life to the dead and calls those things which do not exist as though they did. Romans 4:17 Trusting God, we began speaking "I am being healed in Jesus' name." "I am healed by the blood of Jesus" That is our confession of faith that will not waver. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer. Psalm 19:14
 
Troubles and trials come to test our faith. They rise up and say, “Do you really have faith in God?” When you aim to please the King, you will ignore outside interferences and distractions. You are focused on pleasing your King. And to please Him, you must be obedient. It is the way you live that pleases the King. Noah believed what the Lord God told him, even though it was something he had never experienced before.  It was by faith that Noah built a large boat to save his family from the flood. He obeyed God, who warned him about things that had never happened before. By his faith Noah condemned the rest of the world, and he received the righteousness that comes by faith. Hebrews 11:7 NLT
 
Sadly, I have found that too many people have lost their faith in the King. They have followed the leadership of corrupt religious leaders who claim to know God but have no power operating in their lives! Faith spoken as an object, is passive and powerless! There is no action required in it. But feel the powerful call to action in Have faith in God!
 
So Jesus answered and said to them, “Have faith in God. For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them. Mark 11:22-24
 
It is that faith that keeps us strong as my wife and I go through some challenges in our bodies. Our faith gives us strength to hold strong to our King and His Word.
 
Has anyone ever asked you, If the God you serve is so good, why do bad things still happen to you? The Lord Jesus answered that question:  “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.
 
“But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.” Matthew 7:24-27 Check your foundation!
 
We must also trust Him enough to know He loves us, He knows our future & purpose, and sometimes His “No” is the very best for us! And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will. 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. Romans 8:27-28 NLT I believe one of the best signs of spiritual maturity is being able to say “Nevertheless, not my will but Your Will be done in this situation.”! He knelt down and prayed, saying, “Father, if it is Your Will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My Will, but Yours, be done.” Luke 22:42
 
Our relationship with the Lord God has nothing to do with what happens to us as it relates to trials, tests, challenges, and assumed disappointments. The King doesn’t spare us from all the hardships of this life just because we are Kingdom citizens. He allows trails for the purpose of testing, strengthening, and purifying our faith in Him. Your God ordained purpose is far more important than temporary trials and/or pain. Learning to persevere through hardship molds and matures our character.  The problem with the modern Americanized Christian teachings is that they don’t want to go through any kind of pain or testing. But that just isn’t in line with God’s Word. My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. 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. James 1:2-8 James tells it like it is!
 
Yes! Be strong in the Lord God and the power of His might! Ephesians 6:10
 
If you want to become strong in your faith in Him, you must be prepared to go through trials at times. Remember, the devil is only LIKE a roaring lion, attacking those who believe in the King. Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your family of believers all over the world is going through the same kind of suffering you are.
 
In His kindness God called you to share in His eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, He will restore, support, and strengthen you, and He will place you on a firm foundation. 1 Peter 5:8-10 NLT
 
Remember, your greatest asset is your faith in the Lord God’s Word.

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

Your Kingdom identity matters!

A part of that identity comes in your name. When I was a much younger man, I thought about names that were given to believers in Christ. I thought about the name “Christian” and why we were called that. Down through the years, I discovered why and that it wasn’t who we were as Believers. Just as my name isn’t Bill, but William. I came to realize that people will call you something and define you by what they call you! People’s perception of you is often altered by what they are allowed to call you. You may think it doesn’t matter what others call you and even have no preference. But I have found that that it does matter and others behavior toward you may be more formal and respectful or familiar, friendly but less respectful. What you allow people to call you determines that. That will also extend to their perception of God’s Kingdom that we represent. A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, loving favor rather than silver and gold. Proverbs 22:1
 
Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain. Philippians 2:14-16
 
Dear friends, I warn you as “temporary residents and foreigners” to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls. Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when He judges the world. 1 Peter 2:11-12 NLT
 
In the early days of the church, believers who accepted Jesus the Christ as their Lord and King were called “Christians”. Remember that Jesus didn’t call them that, nor did they call themselves that. But the name stuck and they embraced how the world perceived them. They were first called Christians by the people they were ministering to in Antioch. Then Barnabas departed for Tarsus to seek Saul. And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch. Acts 11:25-26
 
That name was given because the Believers were conducting themselves like Christ, not because they were religious or in some religious organization. They were Kingdom citizens since they were born again, as the Lord Jesus spoke of to Nicodemus. There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.”

Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God.” John 3:1-3
 
The Lord Jesus went on to explain that this transformation had to take place in the Spirit, not in the flesh. It is the inner man that will be regenerated. The flesh is one process, the Spirit is another. Then the King explained the process to Nicodemus:  Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?”
 
Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the Kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. John 3:4-6
 
Now, I ask you; do you want to be known as a part of a religious group or a citizen of the Kingdom of Heaven? There is a world of difference between the two. We are joint heirs with Jesus. The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together. Romans 8:16-17
 
                                         Know your Kingdom identity!
 
A Christian is a member of a religious group. But a Kingdom citizen is a citizen of a government. A Christian may believe that they are in right standing with God by attending weekly services and following denominational rules—it focuses on the external. I'm not saying they don't know Jesus as their Savior, but the churches' rules are the priority. But a citizen of the Kingdom is to be led by the Spirit—our Kingdom Governor—who lives within them. Their right standing comes from their obedience to God’s Word and the Holy Spirit.  For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” Romans 8:14-15
 
A Christian denomination’s rules/beliefs sometimes change with the world’s changing culture. But the Kingdom of God is unchanging. His Word is eternal and unchanged by the current culture. Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures. James 1:17-18
 
Many say they love Jesus, but Jesus told us how we are to love Him:
 
“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 14:15-17

We don't get to pick and choose which of His Word we will follow.

Remember that His commandments are God’s Word—eternal and unchanging. Jesus IS the Word made flesh. You cannot love Jesus without obeying His Word. And the Word (Christ) became flesh, and lived among us; and we [actually] saw His glory, glory as belongs to the [One and] only begotten Son of the Father, [the Son who is truly unique, the only One of His kind, who is] full of grace and truth (absolutely free of deception). John 1:14 AMP
 
Remember that your greatest asset is your faith in the Lord God’s Word.

​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
​

​God’s Kingdom Constitution.

This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Joshua 1:8
 

When the King speaks, His Word is law, not just some words on a piece of paper. As Kingdom citizens, the Lord God’s Word is the only word we are to obey. The Lord God left us His Constitution to read and study. His Word is for everyone to embrace. His Word is unchanging.
 
Keep in mind, when He brought the children of Israel out of Egypt, there were some Egyptians that came with God’s chosen people. They were with them as they crossed on dry ground through the Red Sea. One law shall be for the native-born and for the stranger who dwells among you. Exodus 12:49 All the people placed under Moses and Aaron’s authority agreed to His law. Then all the Israelites did so; they did just as the Lord had commanded Moses and Aaron. And on that very same day the Lord brought the Israelites out of the land of Egypt by their hosts (tribal armies). Exodus 12:50-51 AMP
 
Please note, the Lord God didn’t allow strangers to bring their God with them from Egypt. There was only one God and one law. It was His Word spoken through Moses and Aaron. As Jesus reminded us: “If you [really] love Me, you will keep and obey My commandments.” John 14:15 AMP He made it very clear that if you love Him, you will obey His Word. While here on earth, Jesus was God’s Word in human form. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. . . And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:1-3, 14 Love is a verb, requiring action! “Keep My commandments” is a command, not a suggestion.
 
The problem is, many people are so caught up in their religion that they fail to consistently read God’s Constitution. If the only “word” you get is during Sunday service, you will be a very weak Believer. Many don’t allow the Holy Spirit to guide them into all Truth. You don’t need “Ten Steps to Fulfillment” or “Twelve Steps to an Abundant Life”. The Lord God only wants you to read, listen and become obedient to His law—meaning His Word. If you are full of His Word and listening to the Holy Spirit, you will be obedient and productive in His Kingdom! He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.”
 
Judas (not Iscariot) said to Him, “Lord, how is it that You will manifest Yourself to us, and not to the world?”
 
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. John 14:21-24
 
There is a plethora of “fallen” religious leaders in the world today because they don’t live according to God’s Word. If they truly believed in God’s Word rather than looking at it as guidelines or suggestions, they would never commit the sins they commit. They would never satisfy their flesh rather than submitting to the Words of their Lord and King. They surely have tuned out the Holy Spirit.

They don’t really believe what they preach.
 
They don’t “see” the damage their disobedience causes.
 
 They are deceived.

But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you shut up the Kingdom of heaven against men; for you neither go in yourselves, nor do you allow those who are entering to go in. . . Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness. Even so you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness. Matthew 23:13, 27-28
 
All one has to do is to choose to embrace and follow the Lord God’s commands and law. It is a choice, a decision on every person’s part. God always gives us a choice. Do you recall what Joshua, the leader of the Lord God’s people said?  And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15
 
Each and every one of us must make that choice for our self! To serve the Lord is to become obedient to His Word. His Word is Law. As Jesus said in John 14, “If you love Me, keep my commandments”. It is just that simple. Religion will have you jumping through many hoops to feel righteous and worthy. Often things are added that may benefit them, but aren’t God’s law for His people. Know His Word! God values our obedience above our sacrifices. “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.” 1 Samuel 15:22
 
Remember that your greatest asset is your faith in the Lord God’s Word.

​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

​What does it mean to live through the Spirit? When we live through the Spirit it is very comforting to know that we are in good standing with the King. You can walk in confidence, knowing that you have His Word living in you!

Sometimes we try to have one foot in the Kingdom of God and one foot in the kingdom of the world’s system. That is a great way to stumble and fall! That just won’t work in the presence of the King. This is why it is so important to have His Word living in you. Do you recall what the Lord Jesus stated? 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 He said that His Word is spirit and life. Peter responded to King Jesus that it was the Spirit that gives you life:  Then Jesus turned to the Twelve and asked, “Are you also going to leave?”
 
Simon Peter replied, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life.” John 6:67-68
 
When you are living by the Spirit, you are in essence being led by the Holy Spirit. Ambassador Paul talked about this. 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. (It does not do away with the law, rather we are not UNDER the law because we are being guided by the Holy Spirit. We are righteous through Him, not our own strength!)
 
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

These things are all works of the flesh and have nothing to do with the Kingdom of God. They are manifestations of the kingdom of this world and darkness. Note that he said those who do those things won’t inherit the Kingdom of God. In other words, you must be a citizen in good standing in the sight of the King, living through the Holy Spirit—being guided by Him. Remember that the Holy Spirit is the most important individual on this earth. He will live with you and be in you. King Jesus called Him “the Spirit of Truth” and He cannot lie. 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 14:17
 
When you are led by the Holy Spirit, our Governor, the chances of you making the wrong choice is zero. The Holy Spirit will always lead you in the right direction.
 
                   Only a changed nature enables us to live as the King lives.
 
People accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior, but they don’t change cultures and wonder why they aren’t walking in the Kingdom life that God’s Word talks about. Too many want to enjoy the things of this world but also want the benefits of the Kingdom. Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever. 1 John 2:15-17
 
Now, the Governor’s role is to convert the citizens to live as the King does, rather than acting according to the culture of the world’s system—or should I say the culture of darkness, as there is only light or darkness. There are no “shades of gray” in God’s Kingdom—He rebukes, convicts and corrects us. This is why it is vital for you to stay in the Word. He reminds you in a couple of ways:  1)He uses our conscience and 2) He reminds us of the Words of the King. In essence, He brings to your mind what is recorded in God’s Constitution of the Kingdom. “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 14:25-26
 
Remember that you are under a new Master Teacher, Jesus the Christ. You are under a new life culture and you are a student of a new curriculum You are a steward of a new ideology in a new government. Everything else—good, bad or indifferent—goes out the window, so to speak! It is a new day and a new world, amen! “Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” Isaiah 43:18-19
 
Keep in mind that your Kingdom Governor begins by teaching you to relate to the Creator as our Father so that you can call Him Abba Father. As ambassador Paul said,  “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God; For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, ‘Abba, Father’. The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.” Romans 8:14-17
 
Yes, we are adopted and joint heirs with Jesus. Thank the Lord for sending His Son! Now I say that the heir, as long as he is a child, does not differ at all from a slave, though he is master of all, but is under guardians and stewards until the time appointed by the father. Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world. But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.
 
And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father!” Therefore you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ. Galatians 4:1-6
 
I will close with this reminder. The fruits of the Spirit aren’t only what the King does, they are His character and by extension, our Kingdom culture! If we are to be like Him and live in His Kingdom culture, we must “grow” the same fruit. But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
 
Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to His cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. Galatians 5:22-25 NLT
 
"Therefore by their fruits you will know them. Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the Kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’" Matthew 7:20-23

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

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 culture of the Kingdom of heaven reflects the nature of the King. When we talk about the characteristics of the Governor—the Holy Spirit—and His culture, we are speaking about the qualities of the King Himself. In like manner, since the Holy Spirit reflects the qualities of our heavenly King, His characteristics are attributed to the King’s nature. There are no differences from the culture of the Kingdom and the King’s nature.
 
In essence, we who represent the King’s culture in our lifestyle and behavior should be consistent on a daily basis. In time we are transformed into His likeness! If you are being led by a minister or someone you see as a spiritual leader in your life, and their behavior does not look like your King or line up to His Word, it is time for a change! You hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you, for he wrote, ‘These people honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me. Their worship is a farce, for they teach man-made ideas as commands from God.’”

Then Jesus called to the crowd to come and hear. “Listen,” He said, “and try to understand. It’s not what goes into your mouth that defiles you; you are defiled by the words that come out of your mouth.”

Then the disciples came to Him and asked, “Do you realize you offended the Pharisees by what you just said?”

Jesus replied, “Every plant not planted by my heavenly Father will be uprooted, so ignore them. They are blind guides leading the blind, and if one blind person guides another, they will both fall into a ditch.” Matthew 15:7-13 NLT
 
As I write this, I am reminded of those in religious circles who have misrepresented the King’s character and principles. We as Kingdom citizens should make it our business to allow the Governor to lead and guide us through our everyday life. Remember this one thing: 

 It is the character of the King that determines the state of the Kingdom.

It should be the same with the fathers in the home. Men, your habits and behavior will reflect on your family, especially your children. If you don’t like a behavior you see in your children, it is time for some self-examination. Children are always learning. They learn from what you say and what you do. King Solomon made this statement in God’s Constitution:  Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6
 
Take this time to train your children. Model life in God’s Kingdom for them. Model faith in God and His Word, resilience, peace, and the character of your King. By training your children, you are building and establishing a Kingdom culture, not the world’s culture. In essence, you are spreading the Kingdom culture. This is why it is so important to have the Holy Spirit leading and guiding your life. Remember, He will teach and guide you. That is King Jesus’ promise to us. 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 14:26
 
Note that He said that the Holy Spirit—our Governor—will bring ALL things to your remembrance. But in order for that to happen, you first must learn.  Every time that you are being taught by the Holy Spirit, you are learning how the Kingdom culture operates. It is the Holy Spirit that makes God's Word alive to you. He gives you wisdom and understanding as you read. Never forget that our Kingdom is not of this world. The Lord Jesus made that very clear while speaking to Pilate. Keep in mind, it was the religious people that brought Him to Pilate and the Roman government.
 
Then they led Jesus from Caiaphas to the Praetorium, and it was early morning. But they themselves did not go into the Praetorium, lest they should be defiled, but that they might eat the Passover. Pilate then went out to them and said, “What accusation do you bring against this Man?”

They answered and said to him, “If He were not an evildoer, we would not have delivered Him up to you.”
 
Then Pilate said to them, “You take Him and judge Him according to your law.”
 
Therefore the Jews said to him, “It is not lawful for us to put anyone to death,” that the saying of Jesus might be fulfilled which He spoke, signifying by what death He would die.
 
Then Pilate entered the Praetorium again, called Jesus, and said to Him, “Are You the King of the Jews?”
 
Jesus answered him, “Are you speaking for yourself about this, or did others tell you this concerning Me?”
 
Pilate answered, “Am I a Jew? Your own nation and the chief priests have delivered You to me. What have You done?”
 
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.”
 
Pilate therefore said to Him, “Are You a king then?”
 
Jesus answered, “You say rightly that I am a king. For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.”
 
Pilate said to Him, “What is truth?” And when he had said this, he went out again to the Jews, and said to them, “I find no fault in Him at all.
 
“But you have a custom that I should release someone to you at the Passover. Do you therefore want me to release to you the King of the Jews?”
 
Then they all cried again, saying, “Not this Man, but Barabbas!” Now Barabbas was a robber. John 18:28-40
 
It was the Jews who demanded His death, but I can see now that it had to be done by a government. A religion couldn’t put a king to death. Only another government could!
 
Take note of what the Lord Jesus said to Pilate when He replied back to him. He stated “If My Kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight so that I should not be delivered to the Jews”. Having said that, Kingdom citizens have no need to fight. Our citizenship is not of this world! Ambassador Paul made this very clear: For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. Philippians 3:20 If we understand and believe this, life will be more enjoyable and fulfilling, while we are here on earth. When King Jesus said "It is finished", it wasn't about His death on the cross. His earthly mission was complete for all time. All that needed to be done was finished. We don't need to fight, we only need to believe and walk in the Kingdom authority He has given us. After this, Jesus, knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the Scripture might be fulfilled, said, “I thirst!” Now a vessel full of sour wine was sitting there; and they filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on hyssop, and put it to His mouth. So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit. John 19:28-30
 
The key to a successful kingdom is the good character of its king. Likewise, the character of the Holy Spirit determines the environment of the Kingdom of the Lord God here on earth. That is why we refer to Him as our Governor. If the Governor—Holy Spirit—resides inside of you and you follow His lead, your life will line up with His Word. You will be a reflection of your Lord and King!

And remember, your faith in the King’s 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