“If you love me,” Jesus said, “you will do what I tell you to do.” Sin is failure to do the good you know you should do. — John 14:15; James 4:17 paraphrase
The ancient concept of kingdoms was much different from today’s provinces, countries, or territories that have governors, presidents, or prime ministers. Ages ago, kingdoms were ruled by kings whose commands were law, their words obeyed without question. A king-dom was any dominion with such a king.
Jesus is no ordinary king.
Before I can be a citizen of the Kingdom of God, I must recognize the phrase “King of kings and Lord of lords” as more than just a title for Jesus. If he is my king, I respect his authority and do what he says. This means more than just praying the words. My prayer is a reminder that obedience is revealed in actions, not just verbal assent.
In his Kingdom, I need to surrender.
As I ask for his Kingdom to come, I am wanting him to be my King in greater measure than ever before, accepting his rule for every aspect of my life, which requires my greater surrender, not fighting harder.
Usually, surrender is a sign of defeat, but in this case it’s my only means to victory. I have no power over the enemy unless I first surrender my desire to whatever God wants (James 4:7).
In saying, “Thy Kingdom come,” I renew my commitment to do all that pleases God.