The Kingdom Mindset vs. The Earthly Mindset
One of the most uplifting experiences I've seen recently involves a brother who left a well-paying job, not out of frustration, but because he felt it wasn't aligned with his household's needs. This brother exemplifies how the Kingdom of Heaven operates. Instead of complaining, he stands firm, confident that his decisions are guided by God. This is a powerful testimony of living by faith.
In contrast, the earthly mindset often leads to frustration and complaints. People may say, "I just had to leave that place; it was unbearable." But in the Kingdom, our perspective shifts. We understand that what may not be good for us can still be a blessing for someone else. This brother's story reminds us to ask ourselves: Are we operating in a heavenly manner or an earthly one?
Entitlement in the World and in the Church
We live in a world full of entitlement. It's easy to point fingers and say, "They think they're entitled," but often, we don't recognize our own sense of entitlement. Perhaps you've thought, "I've been here for years; they owe me this position." This mindset isn't limited to the secular world; it seeps into the church as well.
When we operate from an earthly perspective, we forget the Kingdom principles of humility and thankfulness. Complaining fans the flames of unbelief, but thankfulness extinguishes those flames and realigns us with God's will.
Overcoming Complaints with Thankfulness
The key to overcoming a spirit of complaint is an overwhelming sense of thankfulness. As 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, "In every situation, no matter what the circumstances, be thankful and continually give thanks to God." This is our weapon against negativity.
When challenges arise, like physical pain or difficult circumstances, start praising God. Thank Him for what you can still do. When you're tempted to Google your symptoms, Google God first. Your words have power. Speak life, not death, over your situation.
The Power of Words
Our words carry immense power. Romans 10:17 reminds us, "So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." What we speak can manifest in our lives. Be mindful of your words, whether they reflect faith or doubt.
Luke 1:37 tells us, "For nothing will be impossible with God." The original language emphasizes that no word from God will ever fail. Every promise He speaks contains the power to fulfill itself. This is the essence of faith—believing that God's spoken word is sufficient.
Real Biblical Faith vs. Complaining
Real biblical faith cannot coexist with complaining. They are fundamentally opposed. When we complain, we operate in an earthly manner, distancing ourselves from God's promises. Deuteronomy 8:2-3 reminds us of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness, where God tested their hearts to humble them and reveal their true nature.
God allows challenges to test whether we will operate in earthly bondage or heavenly freedom. Our response determines whether we stay in a place of spiritual slavery or move into the promised land of God's blessings.
Speaking Life into Your Situation
God created the world by speaking it into existence, and He has given us the power to speak life into our circumstances. Be cautious with your words; they have the power to build or destroy. As Proverbs 18:21 says, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue."
We must choose to speak in a heavenly manner, aligning our words with God's will. When we do, we activate the power of the cross within us. Jesus said in Luke 9:23, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me." This daily act of surrender involves speaking life, not death.
Conclusion: Operating in the Promised Land
The question we must ask ourselves is whether we are operating in a heavenly or earthly manner. Are we aligning our actions and words with God's will? Jesus said, "I am the door" (John 10:9). To enter the promised land, we must fully commit, leaving behind earthly ways and embracing the Kingdom mindset.
As we close, remember to examine your heart. Are you harboring bitterness or unforgiveness? Cleanse your heart and renew your mind. Operate in a heavenly manner on earth as it is in heaven. This is how we truly step into the promised land of God's blessings.
Comments