January 24, 2018
Torn between two worlds. Such is the dilemma of kingdom citizens.
"Jesus presented another parable to them, saying, 'The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field. But while his men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed wheat tares among the wheat, and went away. But when the wheat sprouted and bore grain, then the tares became evident also.' " (Matthew 13.24-26)
Jesus came to sow the seed, the word of the kingdom. Those who received it became that good seed, "the sons of the kingdom (Matthew 13.38). But, the devil sowed counterfeit seed, and those deceived by him became "the sons of the evil one." (Matthew 13.38) Both "crops" are allowed to grow side by side in this age, until the coming judgement at the return of Christ (Matthew 13.40-43)
It is good for us to know these facts. The two "fields" (kingdoms) that exist in this age don't always coexist peacefully. The evil kingdom seeks to draw the sons of the kingdom into its domain, while we seek to rescue the sons of the evil one from his kingdom and influence. In this age, it is an ongoing dilemma. But, we are optimistic and encouraged in knowing that "greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world" (1 John 4.4) The two kingdoms are not equal; we belong to the superior one!
Fully confident of the inevitable outcome, may we live faithfully, fruitfully, and victoriously in a world with two kingdoms in conflict.Steve Taylor, 2018
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January 23,2018
Jesus saw the kingdom amidst the ordinary. Seed, soil, yeast, treasures, and pearls became illustrations of deeper truths concerning the kingdom of God.
Perhaps His best known parable is that of seed and soil, recorded in Matthew 13.1-9. Seed fell on various types of soil, and grew according to the quality of the soil. He explained the parable (Matthew 13.18-24), telling us that we are represented by the varying types of soil, and our response to "the word of the kingdom" (Matthew 13.19). If there is no room in our heart and mind to receive this kingdom word, the devil is more than willing to snatch it away from us. If we are marginally responsive, the kingdom seed withers when adversity comes. If worldly pursuits take precedent, the kingdom seed is eventually squeezed out and fails to be productive. But, if we hear, understand, and have a genuine desire for the things of the kingdom, it will be productive in our lives.
What is the priority of the kingdom in your life? Are you seeking to better understand it, and partner with the King in His great kingdom cause? Is His kingdom your passion (Matthew 6.33)? The kingdom is so much more than theological truth; it is the lifestyle of those preparing themselves and others for the coming of Christ, and the great government we will share with Him (Revelation 20.6).
May the kingdom be our number one passion and priority.Steve Taylor, 2018My other blogshttp://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/ https://kingdomdreamer.blogspot.com/Amazon ebookhttp://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GWAmazon paperbackhttps://www.createspace.com/4500045 Facebook pagehttps://www.facebook.com/azstevetaylor/YouTube video channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxND_ZsDdWXURp9rg88YY7g
January 17, 2018
First things first. Having our priorities in order is ... well, a high priority. At the top of the list is one abundantly clear priority: "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." (Matthew 6.33)
The "kingdom agenda"and its associated lifestyle is to be priority number one for the disciple of Jesus. This, He says, takes precedent over an obsessive fixation on daily needs such as food, drink, and clothing. We do not neglect to work to obtain these things (2 Thessalonians 3.10-13), but they do not become our number one pursuit.
To daily impress on our minds the kingdom priority, we pray the model prayer: "Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." (Matthew 6.10) Making this our prayer priority, we then are guided to kingdom priorities with our time, money, and energy.
Just what this kingdom priority looks like differs from person to person. For some it will be teaching, preaching and writing. For others, assisting the helpless and needy. Still others will find expression through evangelistic activities and action.
Make the kingdom of God top priority. May a passion for its progress and advancement unless a mighty force of workers.Steve Taylor, 2018My other blogshttp://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/ https://kingdomdreamer.blogspot.com/Amazon ebookhttp://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GWAmazon paperbackhttps://www.createspace.com/4500045 Facebook pagehttps://www.facebook.com/azstevetaylor/YouTube video channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxND_ZsDdWXURp9rg88YY7g
January 16, 20178
No higher compliment could be given than this: "he followed the LORD God of Israel fully." (Joshua 14.14)
These words described Caleb, a man of faith and commitment. He along with Joshua were the only two of twelve spies who returned from the Promised Land with a positive report and admonition that the Israelites should immediately move to occupy the land (Numbers 13.30). Unfortunately, the estimation of the other ten spies prevailed, resulting in forty years of needless wandering in the wilderness. Now, forty years later, Caleb is given a specific inheritance in the Promised Land.
Caleb serves as a shining example for us. Brimming with faith, he knew of the power and possibilities of Yahweh God when the nay-sayers had "grasshopper vision" (Numbers 13.33). Never wavering in faith, he "followed the LORD God of Israel fully," and received an inheritance.
Through faith and obedience, we too will receive a land inheritance; the kingdom of God on earth. The worth-all-ness of this great promise drives faith and obedience in our lives today. Not that it's always easy because, "through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God." (Acts 14.22) Regardless, we persevere, encouraged by the great example of people such as Caleb. "Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary." (Galatians 6.9)Steve Taylor, 2018
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January 10, 2018
If you've ever questioned your worth (who hasn't?), then consider this rich promise: "know that the LORD has set apart the godly man for Himself; The LORD hears when I call to Him." (Psalm 4.3)
In Christ, we are godly and, as such, we are set apart for a special relationship with our Creator Father. We enjoy favored status with Him, and are readily heard by Him when we pray. Our profound gratitude prompts this response:
"Tremble, and do not sin; Meditate in your heart upon your bed, and be still. Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, And trust in the LORD." (Psalm 4.4-5)
Be awe-struck by the grace and favor of your Father. Let that motivate a God-pleasing lifestyle. Whatever your circumstances, never cease to trust in the LORD who favors you.Steve Taylor, 2018
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January 9,20128
The battle was won without conventional weapons. No sword was drawn, or arrow spent.
"The Lord said to Joshua, 'See, I have given Jericho into your hand, with its king and the valiant warriors. You shall march around the city, all the men of war circling the city once. You shall do so for six days. Also seven priests shall carry seven trumpets of rams' horns before the ark; then on the seventh day you shall march around the city seven times, and the priests shall blow the trumpets. It shall be that when they make a long blast with the ram's horn, and when you hear the sound of the trumpet, all the people shall shout with a great shout; and the wall of the city will fall down flat, and the people will go up every man straight ahead.' " (Joshua 6.2-5)
That was it. A war waged without weapons. It wasn't really won by a six-day march, or trumpet blasts and loud shouts; through the resolute obedience of God's people, the LORD God brought about the victory.
We may not be facing anything so formidable as a fortified city, but there are looming battles before each of us that can seem as insurmountable. A serious illness. A job loss. A family crisis.
It's been said that in life there are opportunities cleverly disguised as problems. Every "Jericho" we face is an opportunity for victory through faith. We just need to consult the Commander for His battle plan, and faithfully do as He says.
Whatever your battle today, remember and be encouraged in knowing that "the battle is not yours but God's." (2 Chronicles 20.15)Steve Taylor, 2018
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January 3, 2018
To state that the nations are in an uproar is an understatement. At the time of this writing, there are numerous hotspots where uprisings and threats could easily spill beyond national borders to become international threats. But, this is nothing new. As long as there have been nations, there has been uproar. The big question is, WHY?
"Why are the nations in an uproar And the peoples devising a vain thing? The kings of the earth take their stand And the rulers take counsel together Against the Lord and against His Or Messiah Anointed, saying, 'Let us tear their fetters apart And cast away their cords from us!' " (Psalm 2.1-3)
Few Bible passages shed worldview light like this one. Leaders and nations of the world are in open rebellion against Yahweh God and His anointed, Jesus the Messiah. As such, the people of God can easily find themselves in the crosshairs of the conflict. At best, there is peaceful coexistence; at worst, hostile persecution.
The rest of the story, found in the remaining verses of Psalm 2, are basis for encouragement and optimism. The Creator of the universe scoffs at the vain posturing of nations and leaders. He has already established His government through His Son. At the perfect time, He will assuredly give to Him "the nations as Your inheritance, And the very ends of the earth as Your possession." (Psalm 2.8)
It behooves us, His people, to regularly and fervently pray, "Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6.10). Most assuredly, it will be, in His time and way.
We also make it our priority and life work to "seek first the kingdom and His righteousness (Matthew 6.33)," knowing the inevitable triumph of His kingdom.
As citizens of the government which will truly prevail, may we invest fully in the greatest work and cause of all.Steve Taylor, 2018
My other blogs
http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/
https://kingdomdreamer.blogspot.com/
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January 2, 2018
A new year is new territory. Like freshly-fallen snow on a field, no tracks have yet been made; no steps or missteps. But, who knows what lies just beyond the horizon? Exciting new opportunities and ventures, or menacing threats? Or perhaps both.
A man named Joshua stood on the edge of new territory, confronted with the greatest challenge of his life. The legendary leader, Moses, was dead, and Joshua was left to carry on the uncompleted mission of the conquest of the promised land. If ever he needed a word from the LORD, it was in the face of this great challenge.
"Every place on which the sole of your foot treads, I have given it to you, just as I spoke to Moses ... Just as I have been with Moses, I will be with you; I will not fail you or forsake you. Be strong and courageous ... be strong and very courageous; be careful to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, so that you may have success wherever you go." (Joshua 1.3,5-7)
Promises made to Joshua are applicable to us as we face a new year. As God's people, every place where the soles of our feet tread has been given to us. That doesn't mean that every place we walk will be peaceful and pleasant, but it is the territory God have given us. He will be with us, and will never fail or forsake us. For our part, we must remain faithful to all His commands and teachings. And, we must remain strong and courageous.
There are likely both challenges and opportunities before us this new year. We will experience pleasant blessings, but also challenging trials. In all that comes, God's words to Joshua are applicable and encouraging. May we be strong and very courageous amidst it all.Steve Taylor, 2018
My other blogs
http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/
https://kingdomdreamer.blogspot.com/
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http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GW
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