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Friday, Sep 25, 2009 1:09 PM

As the World Turns ...The Kingdom is Growing

By Tom Hackett

As Christ followers we live in the soap opera of life on this planet with all the drama, danger and concerns that go with it while at the same time aware that there is a Kingdom that is invisible and eternal that is our real home. In the world we are at a critical time of history filled with change and conflict that calls for our attention and involvement. In the spiritual world the Kingdom of God is advancing in remarkable ways. It cannot be controlled and is active 24 hours a day across borders, governing philosophies, social and economic classes, languages, and ethnic groups. Spiritually speaking this is a great time to be alive.

In the midst of all this Jesus calls us to be "in" the world but not to be "of" the world. How do you deal with that?

Personally; When it comes to being “in” the world” I am trying to find what I can live with. I am not sure I am "there" yet. At one time I thought getting the right people in government would solve the "in" the world part of it but I have since learned that life is complex and people cannot be trusted. At this point I remain "informed" but somewhat lost or disillusioned. I want to take action but am not sure about the right way to do so.

When it comes to the spiritual side I have peace about how I want to live my life committed to the advancement of the Kingdom and am fully engaged, at least as far as "missions" goes. I am still working on how I "do life" on a daily basis with my neighbor. For now I have peace with God but feel unsettled in my mind about the “world” stuff.

I am interested in hearing about how you are processing this conundrum. Is it safe to share? What a strange time we are living in.

5 comments so far:

(Friday, Sep 25, 2009 4:38 PM)

Hi Tom...Eddie Dunn from New Jersey Home Church Network:

There is no doubt the Kingdom of God is advancing right before our very eyes. I believe there are "forerunners" who are prophetically preparing the way in missions, simple church, government, the arts and all other areas that go beyond the church as we know it. God is transforming His Bride into what He wants...so much of the Kingdom is beyond our current understanding that I think we as a first step need to disengage from the natural into the supernatural nature of the Kingdom...we have to stop thinking and doing as the world does...deep repentance, miraculous transformation and simple obedience brother in Jesus and Jesus alone...Amen! All the best

(Saturday, Sep 26, 2009 4:17 PM)

Tom,

The Kingdom of God, transends this world, his purposes will go forward, we are advancing the Kingdom here in Africa, we can change the world one man at a time, who is it God wants you to talk to today? We need to stop being affected by the world and start being effective in the world.The key to this I beleive is found in

Eph 5:15-18

See then that you walk circumspectly,(circumspectly :

adj

prudent: taking into consideration all possible circumstances and consequences before acting) not as fools but as wise,

redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, (NKJ)

God bless,

Joe & Averyl

By Jennet P.

(Sunday, Sep 27, 2009 2:24 AM)

This conversation sounds a little philosophical for my brain, but I will giveit a try! I will say it how I see it. I am on this earth for a reason. Only God knows my purpose and the plan He has for me. I know that I need to keep my eyes on God and to consult with Him on every matter. I also know that I can't be so heavenly minded that I am of no earthly good. When I am feeling lost, I consult God. When I am tempted, I consult God. When I am in a situation where I don't know how to respond, I consult God. Whatever the situation I remind myself that God is the best of the best-the best counsellor, the best financial advisor, the best match maker, the best parent etc. I just have to remember to let go and let God!

By Mary Cowin

(Sunday, Sep 27, 2009 10:31 PM)

Hi, Tom,

When you talk about being in the world but not of it, I think of Phil. 2:12-16

"it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life..."

As surrendered vessels, it is the Lord who places us where He wants and flows through us, making us bright lights in the world everywhere we go. When we live by Him and His word, we are in the world, but not of the world.

Jn. 15:19 says:

"If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you."

I see this as keeping our eyes focused on Jesus and His word, and asking the Lord's help to perfect us, and to keep us holy and unspotted by the world.

Blessings,

Mary

By Tom H

(Tuesday, Sep 29, 2009 11:39 AM)

Eddie, Joe, Jennet and Mary;
Thanks for sharing...good stuff!
When I posted this article I was addressing the frustration I have with "earthly" concerns and the realities of wanting to be more spiritually minded or at least trying to come up with the balance for me. I appreciate your comments. Let's individually be what we can to make our world a better place and stay connected to the vine in such a way that we accomplish what is of eternal value while we are here. Guide each of us Jesus to be what you are calling us to be.

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