Probably the best Kingdom example we have from history is found in King David's story from the Bible. David was a "type" of the One Who was to come. This is why his story prepares us not only for the arrival and nature of Jesus - the King of the earth, but also for the Kingdom His followers will share with their king. We will reign with Him!
There are many specific prophecies and words that prepare the Jews (and the entire earth) for the coming King. What is cool about this is that David experienced a heart unique in scripture and among the world of kings. This is why so many of his "songs" have been recorded for us: we are given insight into the heart of the coming King Jesus. About 100 of the 150 recorded Psalms originate from the instrument and heart of the shepherd King.
From his "songs" we learn many things about living out the Kingdom. Here are a few.
You belong to me.
"The earth is the Lord's, and all it contains, the world, and those who dwell in it. For He has founded it upon the seas and established it upon the rivers. Who may ascend into the hill of the Lord? And who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted up his soul to falsehood and has not sworn deceitfully. He shall receive a blessing from the Lord and righteousness from the God of his salvation. This is the generation of those who seek Him, Who seek Your face — just as Jacob did. Selah (I lift this up)." Psalm 24:1-6
√ A follower of this King will bend his or her will to His Words and His greatness.
√ He or she will develop a wisdom that differs from culture structures.
√ While we may be productive workers, it is the blessing of God which will remain.
√ Is this your chosen trajectory for living?
I am shelter in the Storm.
"Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were born or You gave birth to the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God." (Psalm 90:1,2) "So teach us to number our days, that we may present to You a heart of wisdom." (Psalm 90:12) "Let Your work appear to Your servants and Your majesty to their children. Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us; and confirm for us the work of our hands. Yes, confirm the work of our hands." (Psalm 90:16-17)
√ Shelter is the nature of God and the story of the Bible.
√ His shelter is the goal of our lives - living under His wings - finding refuge.
√ Have you found this kind of shelter for your heart and soul?
√ In what ways does peace reign inside of you?
Forgiveness is My heart.
David's imperfections were evident. He was a man just like us. Psalm 51 (song) reflects upon his adultery and murder and upon God's forgiveness and cleansing.
"Be gracious to me, O God, according to Your lovingkindness; according to the greatness of Your compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. Against You, You only, I have sinned and done what is evil in Your sight, so that You are justified when You speak and blameless when You judge." Psalm 51:1-4
"Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and sustain me with a willing spirit. Then I will teach transgressors (like me) Your ways, and sinners (like me) will be converted to You." Psalm 51:10-13
√ What does it mean to need to experience being "washed"?
√ What happens when our hearts become clean and our spirit is willing to follow?
√ How does failure qualify as an asset when it comes to helping others follow God?
Whenever you read Psalms (and you should
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