Jesus Christ: Earth's New Ruler

Today's political world is filled with conflict. Left versus right. Red versus blue. Politicians are vying for your vote and support and make promises they have no intention of keeping or are unable to keep. The economy is in disarray and no one seems to have answers. Why is there so little to rely on?

It is not in God's plan for mankind to put trust in human government. Psalm 146:3 and 4 says, "Do not put your faith in nobles, nor in the sons of earthling man, to whom no salvation belongs. His spirit goes out, he goes back to his ground, in that day his thoughts do perish." Rather, mankind needs to look to Christ, whose rulership comes from his Father, Jehovah. His rulership is ever lasting, without end. Jesus has unique qualifications as first born of all creation and head of God's congregation of believers. We can have confidence in his rulership because he is fond of humankind. So great is Christ's love for all humans that he freely gave his life to attone for all our sins. His is a rulership of love.

Because he is rightfully our king, we should focus on his kingdom. Acts 4:12 confirms this. "Furthermore, there is no salvation in anything else, for there is not another name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must get saved." Jesus has been granted all authority in heaven and on earth. Philippians 2:9-11 states, "For this very reason God has exalted him to a superior position and kindly gave him the name that is above every other name, so that in the name of Jesus every knee should bend of those in heaven and those on earth...and every tongue should openly acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father." What better government could there be? And there are no term limits to his kingship. Neither is there corruption or unkept promises and disappointments. Yes, the Kingdom of God is the answer.

Do we acknowledge Christ's position on a daily basis? We need to support the kingdom arrangement at all levels of our lives. Action is required. Christian loyalty is needed. This requires avoiding the taking of sides in political issues. God's kingdom is no part of this world. Involvment in political issues is a subtle way that we can be caught up in worldly affairs which are far removed from the things of God. It can distract us from the more important things of godly devotion and our service to God. By taking a stand for the Kingdom, we will receive many blessings. It is a source of refreshment.

As subjects of God's Kingdom, we will be treated lovingly. Justice, peace, and righteousness will prevail. It has Jehovah's seal of approval. No human government can compare to it. Christ will be a refreshing ruler to whom obedience will be joyful rather than oppressive.

Minding the Spirit brings Life and Peace

Romans 8:2 tells us "For the law which gives that spirit which gives life in union with Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and death." This is a matter of life and death. Action must be taken. The gift of eternal life has requirements that must be met by each individual hoping to be worthy of this gift.It isnot just an actof faith. Minding the spirit brings life and peace. However, we need to be aware ofhow our imperfections can hinder us. Our flesh is just as much an enemy as Satan. Jeremiah 17:9 states, "The heart is more treacherous than is anything else and is desperate. Who can know it?" We need to guard against impulses of the flesh. Such impulses can dominate a person's life. If we allow this to happen, we cannot please God. In fact we begin to displease God. What can you do? Avoid setting your own standards of what is right or wrong or good or bad. Test your attitudes against specific counsel given in the Bible. Make the Bible your personal guide, your life coach.

We also have to mind the spirit. Set personal goals for yourself. Our aims and aspirations should be spiritual. God does not set goals for us. We have to set our own personal goals to improve study habits, daily prayer, and service to Jehovah. The key is to develop good habits. Ask yourself, what have I been accomplishing, what do I want to accomplish, and what do I need to accomplish to make my spirituality blossom?

Develop a kind of faith that Jehovah will back and help you to develop. Consider how much effort you put into material things to the effort you put into spiritual things. Choose goals you know Jehovah will bless. (Matthew 6: 19-21 "Stop storing up for yourselves treasures upon the earth where moth and rust consume, and where thieves break in and steal. Rather store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Knowledge is not enough. We have to LOVE what we learn. Be specific in your prayers when asking Jehovah to help you resist temptations and distractions. Be willing to commit personal effort and dedicate time to do what you see needs improvement in your personal life that will help you mind the spirit. The reward with a promise is life and peace.