What practical steps can we take to prioritize God's kingdom over worldly pursuits? The Mountain That Fills the Earth “Then the iron, clay, bronze, silver, and gold were crushed together and became like chaff on the threshing floor in summer. The wind carried them away, and not a trace of them could be found. But the stone that had struck the statue became a great mountain and filled the whole earth.” (Daniel 2:35) The statue’s metals represent the world’s proud empires; the stone pictures God’s kingdom. When the stone grows into a mountain that fills the whole earth, it shows the absolute triumph and permanence of God’s rule. If His kingdom will one day displace every worldly power, it deserves first place in our lives now. Recognize the Supremacy of God’s Kingdom • Daniel 2:44—“The God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed.” • Matthew 6:33—“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.” • Colossians 3:1-2—“Strive for the things above… Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Because God’s kingdom is eternal and certain, every earthly pursuit must become secondary. Believers who grasp this shift from anxiety over temporary gains to joyful investment in what lasts. Practical Steps to Prioritize the Kingdom 1. Daily surrender • Begin each morning acknowledging Christ’s reign (Luke 9:23). • Ask, “How can Your rule shape my plans today?” 2. Reorder the schedule • Block out non-negotiable time in Scripture and prayer (Psalm 1:2). • Align appointments and commitments with kingdom goals, not merely personal advancement. 3. Steward resources intentionally • Budget firstfruits giving (Proverbs 3:9). • Simplify possessions; redirect excess toward gospel work (1 Timothy 6:18-19). 4. Integrate witness into work and relationships • View the workplace as a mission field (Philippians 2:15-16). • Build friendships that open natural doors for sharing Christ. 5. Cultivate eternal perspective • Regularly meditate on passages that unveil the coming reign of Christ (Revelation 11:15). • Celebrate testimonies of lives changed; they preview the mountain filling the earth. Guarding Against Worldly Drift • Identify idols early—comfort, acclaim, control—then repent (1 John 2:15-17). • Limit media that feeds envy or discontent. • Keep accountable friendships that point you back to Scripture’s priorities (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Rest in God’s provision; refuse to chase “more” for security (Matthew 6:24-34). Living the Kingdom Now, Awaiting Its Fullness Every act of obedience, generosity, and witness is a small echo of the stone growing into the mountain. By aligning habits, finances, and relationships with God’s coming reign, we participate in what will soon fill the whole earth—and we experience the joy of serving the King whose kingdom can never be shaken. |
    |