Vital signs- Sunday September 13th, 2020

Matthew 6:10 Jesus teaches us to pray, ‘Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.’

On earth as it is in heaven became a co-existing reality when Jesus came to earth, but what does ‘Your kingdom come’ mean?

Over the years our ‘Kingdom’ understanding has eroded, like a cliff disappearing into the sea, changing the landscape of our faith. Jesus references Isaiah 61, which outlines the signs of the Kingdom, ‘The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me (GOD’S PRESENCE), because the LORD has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor (JUSTICE). He has sent me to bind up the broken-hearted (HEALING), to proclaim liberty to the captives and the opening of the prison to those who are bound (FREEDOM i.e. SALVATION AND DELIVERANCE), to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favour (PEACE), and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn (COMFORT), and grant to those who mourn in Zion to give them a beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit (JOY), that they may be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified’.

As an adopted child of God and ambassador for God’s Kingdom, you can powerfully tap into all of these and bring them from heaven to earth as you encounter people daily.

Once you understand and focus on Kingdom values and recognise through your identity you have access to them, their opposites become a target for your attention as you learn to pray and take authority over them. When you encounter despair, offer Comfort; when there is hopelessness, release Joy; if you witness physical and emotional pain, bring Healing. Praying for and declaring God’s Presence can change any situation.

You express the thoughts that fill your consciousness, so fill your every thought with the truth of God’s Kingdom.

Take every opportunity to influence our world with Kingdom perspective.