/Living in the Light: The Characteristics of God’s Kingdom
In our world today, there are only two kingdoms: the Kingdom of God and the kingdom of the devil. There is no middle ground. Each of us is a citizen of one or the other. These kingdoms operate with distinct authority, culture, and governing standards. But what does it mean to live in God’s Kingdom, and how can we reflect its essence?
God’s Kingdom is not a democracy. It is ruled by the supreme authority of the King of kings, and His Word is the final law. Unlike earthly governments where decisions are often subject to votes and debates, the Kingdom of God operates on divine principles that are eternal, unchanging, and perfect. As citizens of this Kingdom, we don’t get to vote on what we like or dislike. Instead, we align ourselves with the King’s will, which is revealed in His Word.
One defining characteristic of God’s Kingdom is light. The Bible repeatedly connects God’s nature and His Kingdom to light, while associating the kingdom of the devil with darkness. Light signifies truth, purity, and divine guidance, while darkness represents deception, sin, and spiritual blindness. Understanding this contrast helps us grasp what it means to walk as citizens of God’s Kingdom.
The Power of Light
Light is never defeated. No matter how deep the darkness, even the smallest light can illuminate the space. This truth mirrors the spiritual reality of God’s light. Colossians 1:12-13 declares: “Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son.”
Through Jesus Christ, we are rescued from the oppressive authority of darkness and transferred into the Kingdom of Light. This is not just a change of address but a transformation of identity. We are now called to reflect God’s light in every area of our lives.
Darkness, by definition, is the absence of light. As believers, it is both our privilege and responsibility to walk in the light of God’s truth and to let that light shine in a world steeped in darkness. When we harbor or engage in darkness, we hinder our ability to reflect God’s light. This is why Jesus’ example is so crucial. In John 8:12, He said, “I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.”
The Standard of Citizenship
Living in God’s Kingdom requires adherence to its standards. Just as earthly citizenship comes with responsibilities, so does our heavenly citizenship. For example, as citizens of the United States, we obey laws such as obtaining a driver’s license or paying taxes—so long as they don’t conflict with God’s laws. Similarly, as citizens of God’s Kingdom, we live by the principles laid out in His Word.
Jesus demonstrated this standard perfectly. When tempted by the devil, He didn’t rely on His own thoughts or consult others. He responded with the Word of God. This is our pattern. Walking in the light means aligning our actions, motives, and decisions with God’s truth.
The Impact of Light
The purpose of light is not just to expose darkness but to guide others toward the truth. Luke 1:79 speaks of Jesus’ mission “to give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.”
Many people live comfortably in spiritual darkness, unaware of the life and freedom available in God’s Kingdom. Our role as believers is to shine the light of Christ through our words, actions, and love. This light not only exposes the reality of sin but also illuminates the path to salvation through Jesus Christ.
John 3:19-21 emphasizes the human tendency to prefer darkness over light because their deeds are evil. Yet, those who embrace the truth come into the light, revealing that their works are done in God. This underscores the need for us to reflect God’s light boldly and consistently. The brighter we shine, the more we push back the darkness, compelling others to consider stepping into the light.
A Treasure in Earthen Vessels
As believers, we carry the treasure of God’s light within us. 2 Corinthians 4:6-7 reminds us: “For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.”
This treasure is the Holy Spirit dwelling within us, empowering us to reflect God’s glory. It is a constant reminder that our ability to shine comes not from our strength but from His power at work in us.
Walking in the Light
Living in the light means allowing every aspect of our lives to reflect God’s truth and love. It’s about aligning our thoughts, words, and actions with His Word and relying on His Spirit to guide us. It also means being intentional about shining in a world that often prefers darkness. As Acts 26:18 states, our mission is “to open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.”
This week, commit to walking in the light. Reflect on areas in your life that need more of God’s illumination. Remember, as citizens of God’s Kingdom, we have the privilege and responsibility to shine brightly in a dark world. Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
As we continue this journey, we’ll delve deeper into the characteristics of God’s Kingdom and the responsibilities we carry as its citizens. For now, let’s shine the light of God’s truth and love, demonstrating the beauty and power of living in His Kingdom. Light has never been defeated, and as long as we remain in it, neither will we.
