Do you see(k) the Kingdom?
Text: Luke 12:13-40
Jesus taught that Life in the Kingdom Is the Pathway to Peace
In the United States more than 40 million people (nearly 12%) are diagnosed with a form of anxiety at present. Prior to COVID nearly 10% of children 3-17 years old were diagnosed with an anxiety disorder.
Boston University found that over 60% of college students met the criteria for mental illness between 2020 and 2021 during the coronavirus pandemic which is double the rate from eight years ago, Additionally the study found that depression among college students increased by nearly 135% over
eight years, while anxiety surged 110%.
Jesus taught the people not to worry, but to seek the Kingdom.
Romans 14:17 tells us, “For the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.”
Today we will consider three practical practices for Kingdom living
o Trust -- TRUST THE FATHER
God knows what you need
God knows what is best
God wants the best for you
God is glad to give you the kingdom
The singular cause of sin is the lack of full and unreserved trust in God.
We do not believe that His ways are best for us.
We do not trust that obedience is truly the path to our greatest joy.
“And do not seek what you will eat and what you will drink, and do not keep worrying. For all these things the nations of the world eagerly seek; but your Father knows that you need these things. But seek His kingdom, and these things will be added to you. Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom.”
o Treasure -- TREASURE THE KINGDOM
To collect or store up things of value for future use
To hold or keep something of precious significance
To cherish “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Luke 12:34
Our temptation is to:
Treasure our children more than God
Treasure our lifestyle more than righteousness
Treasure our freedom more than our eternal rewards
o Trade -- TRADE FOR THE BEST
You cannot pursue the things of this world AND
pursue righteousness.
You cannot seek the approval of this world AND
the approval of God.
But seek FIRST: in absolute terms this means EXCLUSIVELY
Seek first
In time, as the first choice
In place, as the most important
In absolute terms
Of exclusive intent
Of the preeminent importance
ENTERING THE KINGDOM
You must be born again. You must receive it as a child. LIVING LIFE IN THE KINGDOM Pray that your eyes may be open to SEE IT. SEEK the Kingdom with ALL your heart.