The King Will Not Share His Glory

 

The King Will Not Share His Glory   To truly understand the Lord God, our King, we must read and study His Word. His Word shows us who He is and who we are in Him. He is our Creator, Father, Lord and especially our protector. He sent His Holy Spirit to us as our Kingdom Governor, to guide us and protect us. He did not leave us here to fend for ourselves. He left us His Spirit to dwell with us and in us, with a condition:  that we embrace and live by His Word. “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.” John 14:15-17 NLT Do you recall what He stated to His representative Isaiah? “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  This is reason enough that He deserves all the glory! It was even the desire of His Son, Jesus, that He glorify His Father.  “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.” John 14:13-14   The Lord God’s Word is ageless, eternal and unchanging. His Word stands to this very day. It is Truth and His desire for His people! This is why you should never place anything or anyone before your King, if He is your King. 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   But mankind is more likely to worship God’s creation rather than the Creator. Sadly, they need to see it in the physical realm to worship it—Sports superstars, actors, entertainers. God never intended that. 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! Amen. Romans 1:25NLT   Remember, He is the Creator of the heavens. In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1 King David glorified the Lord God’s handiwork. For the Word of the Lord is right, and all His work is done in truth. He loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of the goodness of the Lord. By the Word of the Lord the heavens were made, and all the host of them by the breath of His mouth. He gathers the waters of the sea together as a heap; He lays up the deep in storehouses. Let all the earth fear the Lord; Let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him. For He spoke, and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast. Psalm 33:4-9   What can you say about the Lord God? Has He healed your body, without the hand of man? I can say yes and testify to that question. I do! And give Him all the honor and glory!   When I refer to Him as Lord, to what am I referring? He is the “landlord” of everything! In a kingdom, the king owns everything in his kingdom. Those who live there live on his land, in his homes and farm his land. They drink from his well and eat his food. That is how it is in the Lord God’s Kingdom! He created this earth and everything in it. You live on His land, in His home, drink His water and eat His food! He deserves ALL the glory, honor and praise! The heavens are Yours, the earth also is Yours; The world and all its fullness, You have founded them. Psalm 89:11 As the Lord God’s representative, Jeremiah, says:  But the Lord is the true God; He is the living God and the everlasting King. At His wrath the earth will tremble, and the nations will not be able to endure His indignation. Jeremiah 10:10 He deserves all the glory and praise, as no other does! So, my question today is, “Why would you depend on mankind for your healing when He made this statement—which is His command to us?” 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 6:33-34   It grieves my spirit to see what many churches call praise and worship. Many have what could only be called religious entertainment, with the congregation mere spectators. Where is His glory? Real praise and worship comes from within a person. It springs from a grateful heart overflowing with praise and the knowledge of who He is. It gives my King all the Glory! Worship is what praise is all about:  Seeking the Lord God until He graces us with His Presence. Once He is present, everyone and everything else is dismissed. “What good is an idol carved by man, or a cast image that deceives you? How foolish to trust in your own creation—a god that can’t even talk! What sorrow awaits you who say to wooden idols, ‘Wake up and save us!’ to speechless stone images you say, ‘Rise up and teach us!’ Can an idol tell you what to do? They may be overlaid with gold and silver, but they are lifeless inside.” Habakkuk 2:18-19 NLT In our case, it is our bodies, not a building made of brick and mortar. Ambassador Paul made it very clear.  Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I then take the members of Christ and make them members of a harlot? Certainly not! 1 Corinthians 6:15   Please read 2 Chronicles 5th chapter. It isn't long. Take your time, but before doing so ask our Kingdom Governor—the Holy Spirit—to open up your understanding. By the way, it describes the dedication of King Solomon’s Temple.   Remember, your faith in the King’s Word is your greatest asset in the Kingdom. All scriptures are NKJV unless noted ​ W.R. Luchie  www.kingdomcitizens.org

Kingdom Transparency

 Kingdom Transparency

​Recently, I read this statement by a recovered addict: "When you're transparent about everything, it knocks the devil's feet right out from under." In other words, don’t give the devil a foothold, or place, in your life. Therefore, putting away lying, “Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor,” for we are members of one another. “Be angry, and do not sin”: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil. Ephesians 4:25-27 NLJV
 
Being a citizen in right standing in God’s Kingdom requires that we do not give the devil a place in our life through secret sins and ungodly deeds. It requires that we are transparent in all we do.  But we naturally try to put on a good front to "save face". Sadly, "saving face" is more predominant in religion than transparency. Religion is far more concerned with how our outside looks rather than the condition of our heart and soul. This creates a religious façade that conflicts with what is controlling our soul (mind, will and emotions). But the Lord said to Samuel, “Don’t judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”  1 Samuel 16:7  

This façade will, in time, hinder our ability to hear from the Lord God by the Holy Spirit—our Kingdom Governor. Jesus told them “Why can’t you understand what I am saying? It’s because you can’t even hear Me!  For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies.  So when I tell the truth, you just naturally don’t believe Me! Which of you can truthfully accuse Me of sin? And since I am telling you the truth, why don’t you believe Me? Anyone who belongs to God listens gladly to the words of God. But you don’t listen because you don’t belong to God.” John 8:43-47
 
This lack of transparency, in an attempt to protect our reputation, damages our ability to influence the world in which we live. Gallup’s 2023 survey on honesty and ethics by occupation puts clergy at an all time low of 32%. Just 32% of those surveyed thought clergy were honest and ethical. You cannot lead those around you to Jesus if they don’t see you as being honest and trustworthy. Consider this:  The world is starving to see someone with an incorruptible spirit and immovable standards. They want to see someone who cannot be moved. They WANT to believe that person still exists, so they seek to tear down believers to test and see if we actually live what we preach! 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
 
Believers must be transparent to knock the demonic realm "off its feet". They used to say "tell the truth, shame the devil". That lack of transparency and truthfulness goes all the way to many pulpits. If the pastor and their leadership aren't truthful and transparent, the members won't be either. When they see transparency modeled by their leaders, they will feel safer to be transparent. They will follow their lead!
 
I can testify to the damage done by living a religious façade. Growing up in a pastor’s family, I can tell you we weren't transparent. Being transparent could cost Dad his job so our family motto was "what goes on in this house stays in this house". That lack of transparency cost us our family, our church and it shattered relationships and reputations. Also the sad thing to me, was that the people shaming us and gossiping about us were doing worse things and keeping their sins hidden by shining a spotlight on us. That's why I became a truth-speaker. The devil ALWAYS uses the hidden things to bring down believers. For all that is secret will eventually be brought into the open, and everything that is concealed will be brought to light and made known to all. Luke 8:17 We only deceive ourselves, because the Lord God sees all. 
 
I've always said that all the devil wants to do is to make you believe a lie. Jesus told us who the devil is:  “He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies.” John 8:44b

What lie is he telling you?

"No one will ever know"
"Trying it won't hurt anything"
"I can stop anytime"
"He doesn't love his wife, he's staying for his kids”
"What they don't know won't hurt them"
"A little innocent flirting is harmless"
 
Little lies protect pet sins….those sins we don’t actually want to give up. The hard truth is that they mean more then our relationship with King Jesus and His Kingdom! Ouch!
 
The lack of transparency and openness about our lives is a breeding ground for hidden sins, which are open doors, allowing the demonic to wreak havoc in our lives. Face what is keeping your spiritual doors open and shut them. Repent, clean your spiritual house of all that does not line up with God’s Kingdom laws and principles and pray for His mercy and grace to cover you.
 
This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is light, and there is no darkness in Him at all. So we are lying if we say we have fellowship with God but go on living in spiritual darkness; we are not practicing the truth. But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, His Son, cleanses us from all sin. If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth. But if we confess our sins to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.. 1 John 1:5-9
 
Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before His eyes, and He is the one to whom we are accountable. So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for He faced all of the same testings we do, yet He did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive His mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most. Hebrews 4:13-16
 
If you aren’t being transparent with people, is what you are hiding unrighteous in the Lord God’s eyes? Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33
 

God's Word says "You shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free" but do we really believe it? If we do, we will never tell a lie or live a lie. We will never tell “half truths” (which are lies) or even lie by omission. We will be truth-speakers and become averse to anything but the truth.
 
What you may not see is that your transparency may also set others free…free to be truthful and set free from the lies and hidden sins that chain them. My prayer is that they will see Jesus working in our lives and want Him in their life. Show those around you what life in God’s Kingdom looks like!
 
You are an ambassador of the Kingdom of God everywhere you go. And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father. Colossians 3:17
 
Now may the God of peace—who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, and ratified an eternal covenant with His blood—may He equip you with all you need for doing His will. May He produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to Him. All glory to Him forever and ever! Amen. Hebrews 13:20-21

Deborah Luchie
​
www.kingdomcitizens.org

Kingdom 102: Staying Focused on His Word in Time of Conflict

 Kingdom 102:  Staying Focused on His Word in Time of Conflict

Staying focused on His Word will result in positive chain reactions in your life. It gives you the power and authority of a citizen of God's Kingdom. It empowers you to withstand conflicts and trials far beyond what you think you could handle.

There will come a time when you will feel forced to give in to some ungodly demand that goes against God's Word. This is a time of testing. Before that day comes, the issue of standing with God's Word or giving in to the world's pressure needs to be settled. That way when the time comes, you will be able to stand and not waver! 

You will stand trial before governors and kings because you are my followers. But this will be your opportunity to tell the rulers and other unbelievers about me. When you are arrested, don’t worry about how to respond or what to say. God will give you the right words at the right time. For it is not you who will be speaking—it will be the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. Matthew 10:18-20 NLT

Take notice of Daniel in the Lord's service. Remember, Daniel didn't have the Governor living inside of him.  What he did possess was obedience to God's Word handed down through Moses.  “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 20:2-6  Daniel was obedient and focused on the Lord God's commands and principles, to the point that he continued praying three times a day, regardless of King Darius' decree.  By the way, King Darius put it in writing.  Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went home. And in his upper room, with his windows open toward Jerusalem, he knelt down on his knees three times that day, and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as was his custom since early days.  Daniel 6:10

Conflicts, troubles or decrees from this world's leaders do not change the Lord God's Word.

Regardless of conflict--knowing that King Darius' decree could not be changed--Daniel knew his priority and stood on the Lord God's command.  Now, if Daniel was able to stand against that challenge with God's Word but without the Holy Spirit in him, how much more should those who have the Governor (Holy Spirit) living within them stand strong!

Stay focused on obeying His Word and He will give us the Gift of the Holy Spirit to live effectively in this present world. Ambassador Peter made this same stand when faced with a conflict at his trial.  Then the captain went with the officers and brought them without violence, for they feared the people, lest they should be stoned.  And when they had brought them, they set them before the council. And the high priest asked them, saying, “Did we not strictly command you not to teach in this name? And look, you have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this Man’s blood on us!”

But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: “We ought to obey God rather than men.  The God of our fathers raised up Jesus whom you murdered by hanging on a tree.  Him God has exalted to His right hand to be Prince and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins.  And we are His witnesses to these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him.” Acts 5:26-32

When you start putting the Lord Jesus first in your life at all times, He will put you as a priority.  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 14:23-24 

There are so many distractions around the world.  It is vital to stay in His written Word.  Without that word down in our spirit, we are to easily distracted and deceived.  Wrong becomes right, black and white becomes gray.  We need to put first things first:  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 6:33-34 If we do this, He will provide for all our needs.  By the way, again, when you embrace the Kingdom and learn to trust in Him more, you will become bold in the time of conflict and trials.  

Kingdom citizens don't fight their own battles or go to war; but they stand on the foundation of God's Word, which is Jesus the Christ.  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  Do not let your heart faint, do not be afraid, and do not tremble or be terrified because of them; for the Lord your God is He who goes with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you.’ Deuteronomy 20:3b-4

Remember the faith of Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-Nego.  By the way, their names were changed to these Babylonian names. (Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah Daniel 1:7)  But when the time came to stand on God's Word, listen to what was said to the king. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego answered and said to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. If that is the case, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up.”  Daniel 3:16-18

I suggest you read the whole story here:   Daniel chapter 3

When you are filled with God's Word, you intimately know Him and His Nature.  That gives you the strength to withstand any conflict without fear or worry! 

Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with My victorious right hand. See, all your angry enemies lie there, confused and humiliated. Anyone who opposes you will die and come to nothing. You will look in vain for those who tried to conquer you. Those who attack you will come to nothing. 

For I hold you by your right hand—I, the Lord your God. And I say to you, "Don’t be afraid. I am here to help you." Isaiah 41:10-13 NLT

Keep in mind, your greatest asset and foundation is your faith in God's written Word--the Lord Jesus the Christ.

All scriptures are NKJV unless noted
​
W.R. Luchie 
www.kingdomcitizens.org

The Clash of Cultures

 The Clash of Cultures

Human governments rise and fall all of the time, but the Kingdom of God stands forever.
 
Remember King Jesus’ response when a religious group called Pharisees asked Him when the Kingdom of God 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 Yes! The Kingdom of God is within you. It's governor is the Holy Spirit.
 
For those who say that God is Lord of lords, you are saying that He owns everything by right of Him being the Creator. Those who call Him King of kings, you are acknowledging that His government and authority are above all others. As ambassador John wrote, And He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written:  KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS. Revelation 19:16
 
When you embrace the Kingdom concept and you are filled with His Spirit, you have a whole new culture. This Kingdom culture, in most cases, will cause you separation with your family. Jesus made that quite clear. Among the religious individuals, there will be division because they will refuse to accept the Kingdom concept and message. “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
 
The religious refuse to accept the Kingdom message even though that was all He spoke of. Keep in mind, culture is stronger than politics. In order for you to change your culture into a Kingdom culture, there must be a transformation of the way you think. Ambassador Paul put it this way:  I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Romans 12:1-2 That is an ongoing process.
 
Understand this, when you are born again with a new spirit, you will take on a new culture and a new way of living. Your old culture—meaning the way you used to live—meaning anything that is contrary to the King’s Word (cheating, lying, stealing, fornication--having sex without being married, gossiping, etc) That is what ambassador Paul was speaking of. Always remember that the Governor—Holy Spirit—gives you power to make the Kingdom choice. We are to make that choice over our old culture. Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma. But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints; neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. For this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the Kingdom of Christ and God.  Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not be partakers with them. Ephesians 5:1-7
 
I can say that I am a living example of a new culture—meaning the way I behave and live. I can also say that it has been a process, not an overnight miracle! We as Kingdom citizens should always be aware of our behavior and evaluate ourselves. Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you are disqualified. 2 Corinthians 13:5
 
Historically, religion has been the primary driving force behind the vast majority of our conflict in the world. Religion isn’t a peaceful prospect. Religious conflict isn’t restricted to Islam or Hinduism or any other ‘non-Western” religion. Christianity carries its own heavy burden of responsibility for religiously motivated conflict. Do you remember the Crusades of the Middle Ages with Christians and Muslims? Also, there were centuries of hostilities and persecution between Catholics and the Protestants. These are extreme examples of culture clashes in religion.
 
Denominations within the church are like little kingdoms of their own, with their own laws and traditions, jockeying for positions and power; fighting among themselves for their will to be done. In essence, they cause division and chaos among the saints. Jesus said, “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.” Matthew 23:13
 
Keep in mind, the secret to expanding Heaven’s culture on earth is to change people’s minds, to cultivate them like a garden, carefully seeding their minds with thoughts, beliefs, ideals, values and convictions of Heaven. I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase. 1 Corinthians 3:6-7  Remember ambassador Paul’s statement to the church at Ephesus:  Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from Him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy. Ephesians 4:21-24 NLT
 
You cannot continue to live in, and be comfortable with, your old culture and also be in God’s Kingdom.
 
Remember, your greatest asset is your faith in His Word.
 
All scriptures are NKJV except where noted

W.R. Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org

Neither Servants nor Soldiers But Sons and Daughters

 Neither Servants nor Soldiers But Sons and Daughters

It is so important to know your position in the Kingdom. How you see yourself in the Lord God’s Kingdom will affect how you live your life. That image creates a mental “posture” which will determine your attitude, behavior and even how you approach your Heavenly Father.
 
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 4:1-7
 
Remember, the King of Heaven wants sons and daughters, not servants.  For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:26 NLT Religion produces servants.  It revels in the spirit of servitude.  Sons and daughters of the King see service as a privilege; religious people see it as an obligation.

Jesus came that we might "receive the full rights of sons".  This is a legal term or language.  It refers to legal rights and entitlements based on relationship of birth. We are sons and daughters of God.  Sonship is our right by creation.  Christ did not die to improve us; He died to regain and confirm us in His Kingdom.  The price He paid was not to make us worthy but to prove our worth. He came to restore the Father's sons and daughters to their rightful position: rulership as heirs of His Kingdom.

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are children 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
 
As His children and heirs, we have His authority through the power of the Holy Spirit.

“Assuredly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven.“ Matthew 18:18-19
 
Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.  Luke 10:19
 
“Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father. 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. John 14:12-14
 
It is absolutely vital to know your position in God’s Kingdom. Yes, we have authority as His children. We speak with the Father’s authority but He did not call us to fight the battle. The Lord God’s angels are His heavenly army! For He will command His angels in regard to you, to protect and defend and guard you in all your ways [of obedience and service]. They will lift you up in their hands, so that you do not [even] strike your foot against a stone. Psalm 91:11-12 AMP
 
The Lord has made the heavens His throne; from there He rules over everything. Praise the Lord, you angels, you mighty ones who carry out His plans, listening for each of His commands. Yes, praise the Lord, you armies of angels who serve Him and do His will! Praise the Lord, everything He has created, everything in all His Kingdom. Psalm 103:19-22 NLT
 
Jesus said, “Don’t you realize that I could ask My Father for thousands of angels to protect us, and He would send them instantly?” Matthew 26:53 NLT
 
We pray and make our requests known. We pray in accordance with His Will. He sends His army to fight the battle. In my desperation I prayed, and the Lord listened; He saved me from all my troubles. For the angel of the Lord is a guard; he surrounds and defends all who fear Him. Psalm 34:6-7 NLT
 
Then he said to me, “Do not fear, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand, and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard; and I have come because of your words. But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days; and behold, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I had been left alone there with the kings of Persia. Daniel 10:12-13
 
Remember, if we are heirs and are destined to rule in our Father's Kingdom, then we had better learn to understand His Kingdom and how it operates.  We must learn how to think, talk, and live like Kingdom citizens.  The Kingdom is the most important message of our age and the answer to the dilemmas of ancient and modern man.

According to Jesus the Christ, everyone is trying all they can to find it and forcing their way through life to lay hold of it! The law and the prophets were until John. Since that time the Kingdom of God has been preached, and everyone is pressing into it. Luke 16:16 The problem is that the Kingdom has been buried under mountains of religiosity. Sort it out. Know the difference between what the Kingdom of God looks like and what religious doctrines and traditions look like.
 
Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My Word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:31-32

​All scriptures are NKJV unless noted
​
W.R. Luchie  & D. Arlene Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org

The Currency of the Kingdom is Faith

 

The Currency of the Kingdom is Faith   We know that every country has a predominant culture, which refers to the particular beliefs, moral values, social customs and lifestyles that distinguish a nation or group of people that is unique to them. The Kingdom of God is no different. Kingdom faith is a distinctive characteristic of the citizens of the Kingdom of the Lord God. From the very beginning, the Lord God intended His citizens to have a culture of faith. But faith isn’t only part of the culture; it is the currency of the Kingdom of God. Just as the dollar is the currency on which America runs, so faith is the currency on which the Kingdom of God runs! Currency refers to whatever is used as legal tender in a nation. Keep in mind, no country can function without some kind of currency. You can’t purchase anything without currency. What happens when you don’t have the correct currency?  Life gets harder. You can’t buy or sell. You aren’t able to meet your needs nor your family’s needs. You may have a thousand Yen in your pocket but will not be able to buy anything in your local grocery store. You might just as well be broke. Keep in mind that in the Kingdom of the Lord God poverty is not measured in terms of the lack of money, but in the lack of faith in 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   People without faith in the King are poor in the Lord God’s Kingdom. They do not have the correct currency. “How long has this been happening?” Jesus asked the boy’s father. He replied, “Since he was a little boy. The spirit often throws him into the fire or into water, trying to kill him. Have mercy on us and help us, if you can.”   “What do you mean, ‘If I can’?” Jesus asked. “Anything is possible if a person believes.” The father instantly cried out, “I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!” Mark 9:21-24 NLT   Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified. Galatians 2:16   Yes, people without faith are poor in the Kingdom of the Lord God, regardless of how much money they may have. A good analogy for this is:  After the United State’s Civil War, there were many Confederate states with wealth in Confederate currency. That currency was worthless in the former Confederate states as the United States currency was the dollar. Their only value was in starting a fire to keep warm.  Now behold, one came and said to Him, “Good Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?”   So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.”   He said to Him, “Which ones?”   Jesus said, “‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’ ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ ”   The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept from my youth. What do I still lack?”   Jesus said to him, “If you want to be perfect (have the spiritual maturity that accompanies godly character with no moral or ethical deficiencies), go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.”   But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions. Then Jesus said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is hard for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of heaven. And again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of God.” Matthew 19:16-24   What King Jesus was actually saying to the rich young ruler was, “Do not trust in your riches, trust in Me. Then you will find true wealth” Keep in mind that earthly riches are temporary. Kingdom faith is the real treasure. 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   I want to share this one thought with you. The enemy—meaning the devil—isn’t after your money. He’s not after any of your material possessions. They mean nothing to him. He is after your faith. He knows the currency of God’s Kingdom. Your level of belief in the Lord Jesus is very important to Satan. He knows if he can steal your faith—if he can cause you to doubt—you will be spiritually bankrupt! Faith in the King gives you hope and strength to fulfill His purpose for your life. If you lose your faith in Him, life becomes pointless and without value. Spiritually bankrupt!   It is our responsibility to always focus our faith on the Lord Jesus and His Word while we are on this earth, if we are to do the work He has called us to do. So Jesus answered and said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but also if you say to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ it will be done.  And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.” Matthew 21:21-22   We’ve got to stop pursuing earthly wealth, seeking it to help “build the Kingdom”. Our Father doesn’t need us to raise money for His Kingdom. He has everything we will ever need and more to do what He has called us to do for the Kingdom of God and He will provide it as long as we only seek His Kingdom and His righteousness! “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. Matthew 6:31-34   Heaven and earth will pass away, but My Words will by no means pass away. Mark 13:31   Remember, as I always say, your faith in the King is your greatest asset in His Kingdom. All scriptures are NKJV unless noted ​ W.R. Luchie  www.kingdomcitizens.org

Kingdom 103: Power and Authority in His Name

 Kingdom 103:  Power and Authority in His Name

Before we start this article, let's take the time to let the Lord Jesus know how much we love and appreciate Him.  The Psalmist David took the time on several occasions.  Make a joyful shout to God, all the earth!  Sing out the honor of His name; make His praise glorious. Say to God, “How awesome are Your works! Through the greatness of Your power Your enemies shall submit themselves to You. All the earth shall worship You and sing praises to You; they shall sing praises to Your name.” Come and see the works of God; He is awesome in His doing toward the sons of men.  He turned the sea into dry land; they went through the river on foot. There we will rejoice in Him. He rules by His power forever; His eyes observe the nations; do not let the rebellious exalt themselves. ​Psalm 66:1-7

The authority of our Governor (Holy Spirit) was in the name of the sovereign of the country He was serving.  That name as Jesus. He used that name to exercise authority in getting things done.  And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth." Matthew 28:18 The Holy Spirit (our Governor) had no real weight; He had to speak in the name of the monarch--Jesus the Christ.  The Lord Jesus made it very plain:   And if anyone hears My words and does not believe, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world.  He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him—the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day. John 12:47-48 Keep in mind that the King's Son operated on earth under His Father's authority.  He showed us how we are to use His name in exercising dominion.   For I have not spoken on My own authority; but the Father who sent Me gave Me a command, what I should say and what I should speak.  And I know that His command is everlasting life. Therefore, whatever I speak, just as the Father has told Me, so I speak.”  John 12:49-50 

Remember, the Governor (the Holy Spirit) also functions on earth in the same way.  When the Lord Jesus was about to return to His heavenly Kingdom, He made this statement concerning the Holy Spirit:  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  Again the Lord Jesus  makes it clear enough for a child to understand.   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

What am I saying?  We are therefore to act in the name of Jesus, for He is the King's Son to whom all authority has been given by the Father, when we work on behalf of the Kingdom.  When the Lord Jesus was ready to leave to go back to the Father, He made this statement in regard to this:   Therefore you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you.  “And in that day you will ask Me nothing. Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you. Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full...In that day you will ask in My name, and I do not say to you that I shall pray the Father for you;  for the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me, and have believed that I came forth from God. I came forth from the Father and have come into the world. Again, I leave the world and go to the Father.”  John 16:22-24, 26-28

The Lord Jesus gave His followers authority when He said:  Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father. 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. John 14:12-14

And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Matthew 16:19 Those of us who are in the Kingdom, are to exercise our Kingdom authority by using the keys (Jesus' name is our authority).  You must remember this:  We operate in time.  The Lord God operates in eternity.  When the Lord God says "soon" it could be many years.  When He states "shortly" it could be months or years also.

The power that comes from the name of Jesus doesn't come from us, but in the authority He has given to His followers, those who are in relationship with Him. They are filled with the Holy Spirit--our Governor--and have been given that authority in the name of Jesus.  Then some of the itinerant Jewish exorcists took it upon themselves to call the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, “We exorcise you by the Jesus whom Paul preaches.” Also there were seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, who did so.

And the evil spirit answered and said, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?” (the demon knew they had no connection to Jesus)

Then the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, overpowered them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded. This became known both to all Jews and Greeks dwelling in Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified. Acts 19:13-17

The Lord God doesn't operate in time as humans may think of time.  He is an eternal God.  If He says it will happen, it will....in His time. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in Your book. Every moment was laid out   before a single day had passed. Psalm 139:16 NLT 

All scriptures are NKJV unless noted
​
W.R. Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org

Kingdom 104: Failing to Know Your Kingdom Assignment Brings Boredom

 Kingdom 104:  Failing to Know Your Kingdom Assignment Brings Boredom

First, let's discuss the meaning of Bored: To weary by being dull or uninterested, to move forward slowly but steadily, as if by boring
Boring:  A tiresome or dull person or thing; mentally unchallenging
Boredom: The condition of being bored or uninterested

Whether you realize it or not, I have just described many religious leaders of today's denominations. These are the individuals that must present their congregation with a new subject every Sunday. They feel the need to present a new religious program to keep people interested in order for their ministry to grow. They do not want their members to become bored with them and move on to something "fresh".  All this is because they haven't discovered their purpose and assignment in the Kingdom. To add to that, those in the congregation are usually listening with carnal (flesh) minds rather than hearing from the Holy Spirit--our Kingdom Governor.  Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world’s eyes or powerful or wealthy when God called you. Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise.  And He chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful.  God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important. As a result, no one can ever boast in the presence of God.  1 Corinthians 1:26-29 NLT 

Boredom comes from a carnal mindset, not a Kingdom mindset. Let me tell you, when you are living by faith and being led by the Holy Spirit, you will never ever get bored! It is an adventure because we haven't already planned everything out and figured out how we can make it happen. Then we are amazed as we see what the Lord God has planned for our life!  For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. Romans 8:14 NLT  A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps. Proverbs 16:9 Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality. Romans 12:11-13 NLT

​When you know your purpose and specifically your assignment while you are here on earth, you will never become bored. Your life will never be boring.  You will be driven with a passion to advance in that assignment. You are focused. You may not have everything planned out but you know where you are going!  My wife Arlene and I can testify to that!  We are living examples of being driven by our assignment.  Now I ask, how can you know your purpose and assignment?  It is very simple really:  by doing what Christ stated. "But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." Matthew 6:33 ​ First you must learn to listen to the Holy Spirit and follow instructions.  Keep this in mind, while He was on earth, Jesus never became bored or boring to others.  He listened to His Father and stayed on His assignment.  He modeled perfection in being obedient to God's Word.  "And He who sent Me is with Me. The Father has not left Me alone, for I always do those things that please Him.”  John 8:29 

Far too often, I read of leaders who claim to be representatives of their brand of gospel make a statement such as "a breakthrough is coming for you". This is a religious statement. Never did Jesus say that a breakthrough was being given. That is not a Kingdom mindset.  All you have to do is to ask and believe as an obedient Kingdom citizen.  Anything else is religion.  The only breakthrough people need is a breakthrough in their carnal soulish nature to obedience and faith in God's Word!  When you read the Gospels, you will know that Jesus was too busy to be bored or boring.   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. Great multitudes followed Him—from Galilee, and from Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea, and beyond the Jordan. Matthew 4:23-25 He was spreading the Kingdom message and its culture everywhere He went.

Jesus stayed focused and never deviated from the assignment for which His Father commissioned Him.  He did ask His Father to re-consider, but then He realized not His Will but the Father's.   He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.”...Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.”... So He left them, went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. Matthew 26:39, 42, 44

Those who have a religious mindset feel the need to have a new message or program every time they come together. They feel without something "fresh" and unheard before, they aren't "earning their keep" and will lose their congregation and ultimately their job.  But the Lord Jesus followed and stayed on focus on the Kingdom message.  What is the purpose of the Kingdom message?  It is to restore those who are lost back to their rightful place in the Kingdom.  The Kingdom message is to grow and mature disciples to spread His Kingdom gospel to all the world.  Everything else is only a distraction.  We need to wear blinders if necessary, and always keep our eyes on God's Message of Kingdom of God.

If you find yourself bored...with the message, with God's Word, with your life in general...seek His Kingdom and His righteousness with a Kingdom mindset. Get into God's Word, seeking His answers to what your assignment is in the Kingdom of God. At times, I have read a scripture countless times and one day our Governor, the Holy Spirit, shows me something in that scripture I have never seen before. That is exciting!  Yes, He is new in our lives every morning if we will focus on Him rather than how we are feeling today. It is truly not about our comfort or what we think we want. The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is His faithfulness; His mercies begin afresh each morning.
I say to myself, “The Lord is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in Him!” Lamentations 3:22-23 NLT 

Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. Matthew 7:7-8

And if you find yourself fighting boredom, go out and serve someone. Show them, by example, what Kingdom life is about! The carnal mind says "What's in it for me?" but the Kingdom mind says "What can I do for others?" And in that mindset, you may just find God's assignment for you. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give His life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45 NLT  

And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ. Colossians 3:23-24

Remember, your faith in the King's Word is your foundation for eternal life and for your purpose while on this earth.

All scriptures are NKJV unless noted
​
W.R. Luchie
Deborah A Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org

The Unshakable Kingdom

 The Unshakable Kingdom

Unshakable:  Not possible to be weakened, moved or broken; solid and unchanging
 
Those of us who have embraced the Kingdom of God, have become part of the unshakable Kingdom that dwells within us. “Yet once more I shake not only the earth, but also heaven.” Now this, “Yet once more,” indicates the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made, that the things which cannot be shaken may remain. Therefore, since we are receiving a Kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. Constitutional Scripture: Hebrews 12:26-28   

It seems so personal, so straight to the point.  Do we have a kingdom, the Kingdom of God, which cannot be shaken?  The answer to that question is clear and unmistakable: Yes, the one unshakable kingdom, the Kingdom of God. Keep in mind, all other kingdoms are shakable.  Kingdoms come and go and change according to the wishes of mankind. The kingdom of communism is shakable.  They hold it together by force. Relax the force and it crumbles.  The kingdom of capitalism is shakable.  Listen to the news all around us.  Not only is it shakable, but easily shakable and shifts and shakes according to the latest headlines. Now, if what I have just stated about the kingdom isn't true, then it doesn't matter; but if what I have stated is true, then nothing else matters.  All science, all knowledge, all achievements, all nations, all people—all things—will end in frustration, failure and decay if they are not aligned with, and obedient to, the Kingdom of God. Everything outside of the Kingdom of God will, in time, be shaken and crumble at its own hand. This is what is happening in modern society. During the reigns of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed or conquered. It will crush all these kingdoms into nothingness, and it will stand forever. Daniel 2:44 NLT

In a world of constant change there is one unchanging person. That unchanging person is Jesus the Christ, our King. He is the Kingdom of God personified and come to this earth. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.  Hebrews 13:8  Jesus never changes.  The King left it in print in what many call the Bible, but in reality is God's Constitution of His Kingdom to all mankind. Our views about Him may change, drifting into myth and tradition; but He Himself will never change from who He was, is and will always be for all eternity.  Always the same and yet, forever, unfolding but always the same.

I have discovered that there are two absolutes:  The Unshakable Kingdom and its absolute order; and the Unshakable Person, the absolute person.

Absolute:  Not qualified or diminished in any way; total; viewed or existing independently and not in relation to other things; not relative or comparative; a value or principle which is regarded as universally valid or which may be viewed without relation to other things. These definitions are spot on!

Jesus is the Kingdom of God, embodied. He came to reintroduce the Kingdom of Heaven onto the earth. This was vital and obedient to His Father’s Will. For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on His shoulders. And He will be called:  Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of His ancestor David for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies will make this happen! Isaiah 9:6-7 NLT Without the embodiment of the Kingdom of God in a person we would have read into the term "Kingdom of God" our preconceptions of the kingdom, which would all be incorrect and inadequate. We would start buying land, building a building and planning our exodus from this world. By the way, some have done just that.  
 
We had to see the Kingdom in operation in a person.  Jesus modeled what life with the Kingdom of God within you looked like. It had to be made concrete or it would not be conceivable.  Jesus is the Kingdom of God wearing sandals and walking.  The Kingdom and the person belong together, for without Him illustrating the Kingdom, the kingdom pattern would have taken many directions, with all sorts of meanings as it has already done through history when the Kingdom and the person were separated. 
 
Now after six days Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother, led them up on a high mountain by themselves; and He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him. Then Peter answered and said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here; if You wish, let us make here three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” Matthew 17:1-4 It is mankind’s nature to want to build a building and set up camp. They too often take a moment and want to turn it into a movement, without asking the Lord God.

Remember, the rediscovery of Jesus without the rediscovery of the Kingdom of God would not be a full discovery; because a king without a kingdom, is a lone figure with nothing to rule over.  The same goes for a kingdom without a king.  But since it is the Kingdom of God and a Kingdom among men; only the God-Man could be the illustration of its meaning.

Keep in mind, Jesus shows us what the Father God is like and also shows us what the Kingdom of God is like in operation. The Kingdom of God is Christ-like and universalized.  Was there any better way to introduce the meaning of the Kingdom than to introduce it in a person?  Was there any better person through whom it could be introduced than Jesus?  He modeled life in the Kingdom of God as a person living in the world.

All scriptures are NKJV unless noted
​
W.R. Luchie and D. Arlene Luchie
www.kingdomcitizens.org

Speaking the King’s Word in Every Situation

 

Speaking the King’s Word in Every Situation

​Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You. Psalm 119:11 NKJV
 
You will never believe anything you hear more than the words you speak. We as citizens of God’s Kingdom have a responsibility to speak the King’s Word into every situation in our lives. We shouldn’t speak our thoughts and opinions but what God’s Word says about it. Often when we speak, we are verbalizing our fears, doubts and anxieties. That makes the situation worse. This is why it is so important to fill our mind and emotions with scriptures so we will be ready and able to speak what God says about our problems.
 
The tongue is a mighty weapon. Use it wisely. Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it and indulge it will eat its fruit and bear the consequences of their words. Proverbs 18:21 AMP
 
People say things and then say they don’t mean it and were only joking. But if you slashed someone with a knife and then said you were only joking, would the cut be any less damaging?  A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak. The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you.” Matthew 12:35-37 He who guards his mouth and his tongue guards himself from troubles. Proverbs 21:23 AMP
 
Jesus always modeled what our behavior and responses should be. He didn’t only teach about the Kingdom of God, He led by example. When King Jesus was led into the wilderness by the Holy Spirit to be tested by the devil, He showed us clearly how we must always respond to temptations and trials. He responded with God’s Word. He went without food for forty days and nights. His flesh was very weak and at that time the devil came. The devil always comes at our time of weakness, whether it is physical, emotional or mental weakness.
 
Then Jesus was led by the [Holy] Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. After He had gone without food for forty days and forty nights, He became hungry. And the tempter came and said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread.” But Jesus replied, “It is written and forever remains written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes out of the mouth of God.’”
 
Then the devil took Him into the holy city [Jerusalem] and placed Him on the pinnacle (highest point) of the temple. And he said [mockingly] to Him, “If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down; for it is written, ‘He will command His angels concerning You [to serve, care for, protect and watch over You]’;
and ‘They will lift you up on their hands, so that You will not strike Your foot against a stone.’” (Isn’t it funny that the devil would even use scripture to tempt us?)
 
Jesus said to him, “On the other hand, it is written and forever remains written, ‘You shall not test the Lord your God.’”
 
Again, the devil took Him up on a very high mountain and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and the glory [splendor, magnificence, and excellence] of them; and he said to Him, “All these things I will give You, if You fall down and worship me.” Then Jesus said to him, “Go away, Satan! For it is written and forever remains written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only.’” 
 
Then the devil left Him; and angels came and ministered to Him [bringing Him food and serving Him]. Matthew 4:1-11 AMP
 
This is how we are to handle every problem, every temptation, every challenge, every situation that comes to challenge our faith; It comes to see if we truly know who we are in the Kingdom of God. Jesus was at His weakest physically but He was full of the Word. There is power in God’s Word. After that time of testing, He was ready to begin His time of ministry and teaching the Gospel of the Kingdom. From then on Jesus began to preach, “Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near.” Matthew 4:17
 
God’s Word is your ammunition. We must be full of the Word, ready to “shoot it off” the moment that trouble, trials or temptations come. “In the moment” is not the time to do a word search in God’s Constitution. His Word needs to be in you, ready to be spoken over any situation or confrontation. I will be compiling some scripture pages by subject to get started and adding to them as I complete them. If there is a specific topic you would like to see, let us know. Do scripture topic searches to keep building His Word in you. “Stockpile” His Word in your heart (mind and emotions) and be ready for anything that comes your way. The Holy Spirit will remind you of the appropriate Word in every situation.
 
You will be tested at times when you are at your weakest point of faith. Do not ever respond with what you think or feel. In those times, remember King Jesus in the wilderness at His body’s time of great weakness.

Respond as He did, “It is written. . .”

Deborah Luchie
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www.kingdomcitizens.org