PRINCIPLES OF THE KINGDOM

PRINCIPLES OF THE KINGDOM

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 6:33
"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."

Supporting Texts: Luke 17:20-21, Romans 14:17, Colossians 1:13, Matthew 13:11, John 18:36

INTRODUCTION
The Kingdom of God operates on a different set of principles than the world. While earthly systems are built on power, wealth, and status, God's Kingdom is established on righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17). Jesus Christ, during His ministry, taught and demonstrated the values of the Kingdom, emphasizing that His followers must live by these divine principles to experience the fullness of God's blessings.

Understanding the principles of the Kingdom helps believers align their lives with God's will and walk in divine authority. These principles are not just rules but spiritual laws that govern how God’s power, provision, and purpose manifest in our lives. When we embrace them, we position ourselves for supernatural breakthroughs and eternal rewards.

In this study, we will explore key principles of the Kingdom of God and how they shape our relationship with God and our purpose on earth.

1. THE PRINCIPLE OF SEEKING FIRST THE KINGDOM
God desires that His Kingdom and righteousness take priority in our lives.

a) Kingdom First Living
Seeking God's Kingdom above all else means prioritizing His will over personal ambitions (Matthew 6:33).

b) Righteousness Over Material Things
The Kingdom is not about earthly riches but about a right standing with God (Romans 14:17).

c) Total Dependence on God
When we trust God fully, He supplies our needs without us chasing after them (Philippians 4:19).

d) The Reward of Prioritizing God
Those who put God first experience divine provision, protection, and peace (Psalm 37:25).

e) Biblical Example: Solomon’s Request for Wisdom
Instead of asking for riches or power, Solomon sought wisdom, and God added all other blessings to him (1 Kings 3:5-13).

2. THE PRINCIPLE OF FAITH
Faith is the currency of the Kingdom, and without it, we cannot please God.

a) Faith as a Requirement
Faith is essential for accessing God's promises (Hebrews 11:6).

b) Living by Faith, Not by Sight
Kingdom citizens rely on God's Word, not circumstances (2 Corinthians 5:7).

c) Faith Releases Supernatural Power
Jesus performed miracles where there was faith (Mark 11:23-24).

d) Faith Must Be Tested
Trials strengthen our faith and deepen our trust in God (James 1:3-4).

e) Biblical Example: Abraham’s Faith
Abraham believed God’s promise even when it seemed impossible, and he became the father of many nations (Romans 4:18-21).

3. THE PRINCIPLE OF SERVANTHOOD
True greatness in the Kingdom comes through serving others.

a) Leadership Through Service
Jesus taught that the greatest in the Kingdom must be a servant (Mark 10:43-45).

b) Serving with Humility
Pride has no place in the Kingdom; humility attracts God’s favour (James 4:6).

c) Serving in Love
Love is the foundation of true service (Galatians 5:13).

d) Rewards for Service
Those who serve faithfully will be honoured by God (Matthew 25:21).

e) Biblical Example: Jesus Washing the Disciples’ Feet
Jesus, though the Son of God, humbled Himself to serve, teaching us the heart of true greatness (John 13:12-17).

4. THE PRINCIPLE OF STEWARDSHIP
Everything we have belongs to God, and we are only stewards of His resources.

a) God Owns Everything
We are caretakers of God’s blessings, not owners (Psalm 24:1).

b) Faithful Stewardship
God expects us to use our talents, time, and treasures wisely (Matthew 25:14-30).

c) Giving in the Kingdom
Giving generously leads to divine multiplication (Luke 6:38).

d) Accountability to God
One day, we will give an account of how we managed His gifts (Romans 14:12).

e) Biblical Example: The Parable of the Talents
The servants who invested wisely were rewarded, while the unfaithful servant suffered loss (Matthew 25:20-30).

5. THE PRINCIPLE OF LOVE AND FORGIVENESS
Love and forgiveness are foundational principles in God's Kingdom.

a) Love is the Greatest Commandment
Loving God and others fulfills all of God’s law (Matthew 22:37-40).

b) Forgiveness as a Kingdom Requirement
We must forgive others to receive God's forgiveness (Matthew 6:14-15).

c) Loving Our Enemies
Kingdom citizens show love even to those who oppose them (Luke 6:27).

d) Love is Evidence of True Discipleship
Jesus said the world will know His followers by their love (John 13:35).

e) Biblical Example: Joseph Forgiving His Brothers
Joseph forgave his brothers despite their betrayal and demonstrated true Kingdom love (Genesis 50:19-21).

CONCLUSION
The Kingdom of God is not just a place but a way of life governed by divine principles. When we align our lives with these principles, we experience the fullness of God's power, blessings, and peace. Jesus came to teach us how to live according to God's Kingdom, and He expects us to follow His example. The more we practice these principles, the more we reflect Christ and impact the world for His glory.

As citizens of God's Kingdom, we must be intentional about seeking His righteousness, walking in faith, serving others, being faithful stewards, and loving unconditionally. These principles are not just suggestions but divine laws that bring supernatural rewards when applied.

PRAYER POINTS
1.  Lord, help me to seek Your Kingdom above all else in my life.

2.  Father, increase my faith so that I may trust You completely.

3.  Lord, give me a servant’s heart to serve You and others selflessly.

4.  Father, make me a faithful steward of the resources You have given me.

5.  Lord, fill my heart with love and help me to forgive others as You have forgiven me.

6.  Father, teach me to walk in humility and obedience to Your Word.

7.  Lord, help me to live by Kingdom values and not worldly principles.

8.  Father, let Your righteousness, peace, and joy reign in my life.

9.  Lord, use me to advance Your Kingdom on earth.

10.  Father, give me the grace to live a life that pleases You always.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS
1.  I declare that the Kingdom of God rules over my life and my affairs.

2.  I decree that as I seek God’s Kingdom first, all other blessings shall follow me.

3.  I declare that my faith is growing, and I will walk in divine authority.

4.  I speak greatness into my life, for I am a servant-leader in God’s Kingdom.

5.  I declare that I am a faithful steward, and I will multiply what God has entrusted to me.

6.  I decree that love and forgiveness will flow in my heart at all times.

7.  I declare that I am a true citizen of the Kingdom, walking in righteousness, peace, and joy.

8.  I prophesy that my life will be a testimony of God’s power and principles.

9.  I declare that my life will shine as a light in this world, drawing others to Christ.

10.  I decree that I am blessed, favoured, and victorious in the Kingdom of God.

May God help us to live by the principles of His Kingdom and experience His abundant life. Amen.