Thoughts for March 10, 2010

                         PASTOR JACK'S THOUGHTS    MARCH 10, 2010

                           CITIZENS OF GOD'S KINGDOM   
Have you ever thought about the world's idea of an earthly kingdom' as opposed to God's Kingdom? Kingdoms always have kings and they both have subjects or citizens. Citizens or subjects make up a kingdom. so let us think about how different the standards of this world are to the standards that God teaches us about His Kingdom.

**The world puts a lot of emphasis on wealth and how to attain it at all costs.  
Jesus said, "What does it profit you if you gain the whole world and lose your soul?!"

**The world puts great emphasis on the importance of body and health.  
God's Word says that the heart (feelings, thinking) is the well-spring of life and the body must obey the heart.

**The world says that if someone hurts you, you have the right to get even or set the record straight.  
God says that we should never take revenge and that a soft word turns away wrath.

**The world says, "It is all about me and mine."  
God says that we should love others like we love ourselves, being kind and helpful, and putting them before ourselves.

** The world says, "I can chose who I like."  
God says that we must love everyone because God Himself loves us all and He IS love!!

I could go on and on with these difference between world-thinking and God-thinking, but God-thinking is far superior to the thinking and actions that the world uplifts in daily life.  God expects His children to think and act like He does.  We, as citizens of God's Kingdom, must be different from the world.  It is a much higher standard and will bring greater joy and peace to you and all those around you.  Your life will honor God and His Kingdom will be honored on earth even as it is in heaven. Isn't it exciting that God gives us the opportunity to be partners with Him in His Kingdom?!!  We are about our Father's business!!

It would be interesting for each of us to make a mental note this week on the ways that our acts and reactions, that God teaches us, are different from the world's teachings. That is the way that we can make a difference in our world and honor God's kingdom here on earth!!

Let's be "Kingdom People,"
Pastor Jack