January 21, 2026

LIVING AS CITIZENS OF HEAVEN ON EARTH

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son.”

Colossians 1:13 NLT

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TODAY’S THOUGHT

The moment you invite Jesus to be the Lord of your life, you receive a brand-new address. You may still be living in the same house in the same city, but spiritually, you have undergone a total relocation.

The Kingdom of Darkness

Prior to Christ, we lived in the "kingdom of darkness." In that realm, it is impossible to see clearly, think clearly, or make truly life-giving decisions. We were blinded by spiritual forces and bound by the demands of our own flesh and selfishness.

As John tells us, “The world around us is under the control of the evil one” (1 John 5:19). Satan rules the realm of the worldly system, fueled by greed, pride, and fear.

The Passport Principle

When you declare Jesus as Lord, you are "transferred." You are no longer a subject of that dark kingdom; you are a citizen of heaven living on earth.

Think of it this way: When I travel to a foreign country, I carry my passport. That document proves that I am a citizen of the United States. Even though my feet are on foreign soil, I am governed by a different set of laws, and I carry the protection and privileges of my home country.

As a believer, your "passport" is the Holy Spirit. You are an ambassador. You are in this world, but you are not of it. You aren't governed by the culture’s "laws" of anxiety, retaliation, or lust. You are governed by the law of the Spirit of life.

Bringing Heaven Down

We don't have to wait until we die to experience the Kingdom. We get to "practice" for heaven right now by living as if God were in charge on earth. When we choose love over hate, peace over panic, and generosity over greed, we are bringing the Kingdom of God into our neighborhoods, our workplaces, and our homes.

Through your commitment to His Lordship, His Kingdom is coming to pass on earth—one decision at a time.

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TODAY’S PRAYER

Holy Spirit, thank You for rescuing me and giving me a new identity. Help me to live today as a true citizen of Your Kingdom. Give me the strength to stay away from the thoughts, words, and deeds of the culture around me that contradict Your heart. Use me today to bring a piece of heaven down to earth. Amen.

“Scroll down to share what you feel God is saying based on today’s reading.”