Today’s Key Scripture

“Your kingdom come.”

— Matthew 6:10

What is God’s kingdom?

It is a vibrant relationship, for Scripture says, “Behold, the kingdom of God is within you” (Luke 17:21).

The Bible also makes it clear that the kingdom of God is not a natural kingdom but a heavenly one: “The kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17).

It is a kingdom of eternal power: “For the kingdom of God is not in word but in power” (1 Corinthians 4:20).

There are six petitions found in Jesus’ Model Prayer. The first three, including “Your kingdom come,” relate expressly to honoring God, while the last three pertain to our own concerns.

This order is certainly in line with His admonition to “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:33).

So when you pray, “Your kingdom come,” you are asking God to release His righteousness, His peace, His joy, and His power—through the Holy Spirit—upon your heart and your life. Only after the things of God’s glory, kingdom, and will, should we pray for the needful supports and comforts of your present life.

 

A Prayer for Today

Father, help me understand that Your kingdom is not just an eager longing for the coming of Christ, but it is my desire to see Your kingdom broaden and become increasingly established throughout the world, both here and now, as in the future. As I pray, “Your kingdom come,” help me to see that it is Your desire for all to be redeemed and to do my part in carrying out the Great Commission of taking the Gospel to all the world. Keep me mindful of the ways I can glorify You, even as I strive to be holy as Christ is holy. In Jesus’ name, amen.

 

*All Scripture references are NKJV unless otherwise noted.