Where you live changes how you live. That includes small things like knowing when to put the bins out for collection. And big things, like all the cars driving slow round where I live because there’s always little kids out playing ball or riding their bikes. 

It’s important to remember that God has brought us into the “kingdom of the Son” (COL. 1:13). Being part of His ‘neighbourhood’ really should affect how we live! People should watch how we act and be able to tell there is something different about us. This is why Paul reminds us that God’s kingdom is not about following rules or arguing over church stuff. It’s about “righteousness, peace and joy” (ROM. 14:17).  

Living by God’s right ways, living to be peacemakers and living thankfully because of all God has done are what kingdom life is all about. And, when we live like this, our lives please God and show love to others (V.18). 

Sounds like the kind of neighbourhood anyone would love to live in!  

By: Joseph M. Stowell 

To Pray About . . .

Thank you, Lord, for making me belong to Your family and 'neighbourhood'. Teach me to always live like part of Your kingdom's citizen.