Are you fit for the Kingdom of God?

ARE YOU FIT FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD? This is a question that many pastors ask during sermons, various renditions of this phrase are noted in Christian devotional books as well as during the myriad of Bible studies across America.  Today, my Virtuous Sisters and I will tackle a response to this question.

I do not know about you, but I am terrified of one of Jesus’ passages in the Bible found in Matthew 7:21 through 23.  He makes the statement to avid followers of His, those who were prophesying in His name, casting out demons, and doing many wonders in His name.  Wow!!  You would imagine that a statement made to such people would not terrify me.  But look again at that passage in Matthew 7:21-23.  Jesus’ response to them was “I never knew you, depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!”

Are we fit for the Kingdom of God?  Many of us would resound a bountiful “hopefully.”  But, what of the gifts and talents we are standing upon to open the door to eternity with Jesus.  Matthew 7:21-23 gives me pause to self-reflect upon the fitness of my relationship with Him.  Some days I can leap for joy when I have started the day off with prayer and worship, smiled at the, let’s say “nice person” who cut me off in traffic and entered my office with positive comments for my staff.  But, what about the days when I am rushing out of bed with only a brief salutation to the Lord for keeping me through the night and when that “nice person” cuts me off, well let’s say, he/she is not greeted with a smile and when entering my office, my staff wishes I would have worked from home that day?

Note to self.  Remember Jesus wants an intimate relationship that takes time and attention to nurture. 

Today is the day I make a conscious choice and an intentional effort to live in intimacy with my Lord, regardless of the way my day begins.  There is always room to stop and do a reset at any moment of the day.  I will use this question to be my cue “Am I fit for the Kingdom of God?” and the terrifying statement of Jesus “I never knew you, depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!” to reset my choices and efforts at that given moment.  I am so glad repentance is available to be at any moment.  Are you?

So today, My Virtuous Sisters, join me in responding with a self-reflective reset and prayer to never hear that statement in person from the lips of Jesus – “I never knew you, depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!”

Live wholeheartedly for Jesus as a protective measure against the snares of Satan.

excerpt from “The End of Forever”

Excerpts taken from “The End of Forever” – a book written by Phyllis McColister to encourage, educate and empower divorced and separated women to find restoration and healing in Christ, realizing their intrinsic value to His Kingdom.   Coming Soon!!!!

Visit again for more Christian Mental Health tips. Until then, remember your worth is far above rubies and learn to laugh without fear of the future (Proverbs 31:25).