Matterofprayer: A Year of Everyday Prayers – Tuesday, January 19, 2016
In Which I Pray for God’s Kingdom
I’ve always wondered exactly what I’m praying for when I pray for God’s kingdom to come. (“Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done”) I’ve been reading bible and theology books for several decades. I do have a bit clearer idea about God’s kingdom now, than I had years ago.
Priorities. I think a good piece of it concerns putting God first in my life. In my work, and my other activities. Of course, it’s not the whole of the meaning of God’s kingdom. Whole books and dissertations have been written on the meaning of that phrase, and considerable disagreement about various viewpoints, as well.
As for me, I would like my life to be a little less cluttered. I think a simpler life would help me to draw closer to God. Yes, work, family, activities and friends are important. Just not all-important. Not like seeking after God.
Dear Lord, this is important, isn’t it? If I put God first, everything else falls into place. Just like a jigsaw puzzle. Lord Jesus, You were right. If each of us seeks Your kingdom and righteousness first—and makes that of primary importance—then “all these things will be added to you.” That is, everything else in our lives gets sorted out. Not perfectly, but You never promised me that, did you? No matter what else is going on, I can seek You. Find You. Walk with You. Thanks.
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Your image of a jigsaw puzzle is helpful–I usually do the outside frame first, then the other pieces. Putting God’s kingdom first is like that outside frame that gives shape and meaning to all of the other pieces of my life. Thank you!
Thanks for the kind comment! Yes, the jigsaw puzzle analogy works particularly well for me. I find things get sorted out if I make priorities in my daily living. I try (and I mean, TRY, and not always succeed) to put God first. I am so glad God understands that I often trip and fall down on the job. To go back to the jigsaw analogy, sometimes pieces fall off the table, and I need to hunt for them on the floor. Sometimes I get called away from the puzzle to do other things. Good thing God is patient with me!