THE LIFESTYLE OF A KINGDOM CITIZEN

THE LIFESTYLE OF A KINGDOM CITIZEN

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Philippians 3:20
"For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ."

Supporting Texts: Colossians 3:1-3, Matthew 6:33, Ephesians 2:19, Romans 12:2, 1 Peter 2:9

INTRODUCTION
Every kingdom has its culture, values, and expectations. As citizens of the Kingdom of God, we are called to live by heavenly principles, not worldly standards. The Bible makes it clear that although we are in the world, we are not of the world (John 17:16). Our citizenship is in heaven, and we must conduct ourselves in a manner that reflects our allegiance to God.

Living as a Kingdom citizen requires a transformation of mind and lifestyle. It means prioritising God’s will, walking in righteousness, and demonstrating His love in all that we do. Unlike the people of the world who are guided by selfish desires and temporary pleasures, Kingdom citizens set their hearts on eternal things.

In this study, we will explain the key aspects of the lifestyle of a Kingdom citizen, examining how our conduct, mindset, and priorities should align with the values of God's Kingdom.

1. A KINGDOM CITIZEN LIVES WITH A HEAVENLY MINDSET
As believers, our focus should be on eternal things rather than earthly distractions.

a) Setting Our Minds on Things Above
We are called to focus on heavenly realities, not worldly desires (Colossians 3:1-2).

b) Renewing Our Minds Daily
Transformation begins when we align our thoughts with God's Word (Romans 12:2).

c) Understanding Our Identity in Christ
We are not ordinary people but chosen citizens of God’s Kingdom (1 Peter 2:9).

d) Living as Strangers in This World
We must not conform to worldly lifestyles but remain distinct as God’s people (Hebrews 11:13).

e) Biblical Example: Abraham’s Heavenly Focus
Abraham looked forward to a heavenly city, not just earthly blessings (Hebrews 11:10).

2. A KINGDOM CITIZEN WALKS IN RIGHTEOUSNESS AND HOLINESS
God expects His people to be holy because He is holy.

a) Righteousness is the Standard of the Kingdom
The Kingdom of God is built on righteousness (Romans 14:17).

b) Holiness is a Requirement, Not an Option
Without holiness, no one will see the Lord (Hebrews 12:14).

c) Overcoming Sin Through the Holy Spirit
A true Kingdom citizen relies on the Holy Spirit to overcome sin (Galatians 5:16).

d) Walking in Integrity and Truth
Our lives must reflect honesty, purity, and godly character (Psalm 15:1-2).

e) Biblical Example: Daniel’s Life of Holiness
Daniel refused to compromise his faith and remained pure in a corrupt kingdom (Daniel 1:8).

3. A KINGDOM CITIZEN LIVES BY FAITH
Faith is the foundation of our walk with God.

a) Faith is the Lifestyle of a Believer
The just shall live by faith (Habakkuk 2:4).

b) Trusting God in All Situations
Kingdom citizens rely on God, not human wisdom (Proverbs 3:5-6).

c) Acting on God’s Word
Faith without works is dead; we must obey what God says (James 2:26).

d) Overcoming Fear Through Faith
A true citizen of God's Kingdom does not live in fear (2 Timothy 1:7).

e) Biblical Example: The Faith of the Centurion
Jesus praised the faith of the Roman centurion who believed without seeing (Matthew 8:5-10).

4. A KINGDOM CITIZEN DEMONSTRATES LOVE AND FORGIVENESS
Love is the hallmark of a true Kingdom citizen.

a) Love is the Greatest Commandment
Jesus commanded us to love God and our neighbours (Matthew 22:37-39).

b) Forgiveness is Not Optional
We must forgive others just as God forgives us (Matthew 6:14-15).

c) Loving Even Our Enemies
Kingdom citizens do not hold grudges but show love even to those who hurt them (Luke 6:27-28).

d) Serving Others with a Pure Heart
True Kingdom citizens live to serve, not to be served (Mark 10:45).

e) Biblical Example: Stephen’s Forgiveness
As Stephen was being stoned, he forgave his killers just as Jesus did (Acts 7:59-60).

5. A KINGDOM CITIZEN SEEKS TO EXPAND GOD’S KINGDOM
We are ambassadors of God’s Kingdom, called to spread His gospel.

a) Winning Souls for the Kingdom
Jesus commanded us to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20).

b) Being the Light of the World
Our lives should reflect Christ so others may be drawn to Him (Matthew 5:14-16).

c) Investing in the Work of God
Kingdom citizens give their time, resources, and energy to God's work (2 Corinthians 9:7).

d) Praying for the Advancement of God’s Kingdom
We must pray for God's will to be done on earth as it is in heaven (Matthew 6:10).

e) Biblical Example: The Early Church’s Commitment to Evangelism
The early disciples preached everywhere, expanding the Kingdom despite persecution (Acts 8:4).

CONCLUSION
Living as a Kingdom citizen is not just about claiming salvation but demonstrating it through our lifestyle. Our values, conduct, and priorities must reflect God’s Kingdom, not the world's system. True Kingdom living is marked by a heavenly mindset, righteousness, faith, love, and a commitment to expanding God's Kingdom.

As we embrace the lifestyle of a Kingdom citizen, we will experience God's blessings, power, and purpose in our lives. More importantly, we will bring glory to God and draw others into His Kingdom. May we live daily with the consciousness that we are citizens of heaven, representing our King on earth.

PRAYER POINTS

1.  Lord, help me to live daily with a heavenly mindset.

2.  Father, give me the grace to walk in righteousness and holiness.

3.  Lord, increase my faith so that I may trust You in all things.

4.  Father, help me to love and forgive others just as You have forgiven me.

5.  Lord, empower me to be a light in my generation.

6.  Father, fill my heart with a passion for evangelism and soul-winning.

7.  Lord, teach me to invest my time and resources in Your Kingdom.

8.  Father, help me to overcome worldly distractions and focus on eternal things.

9.  Lord, make me a faithful ambassador of Your Kingdom.

10.  Father, let my life be a testimony of Your Kingdom principles.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1.  I declare that I am a citizen of God’s Kingdom, and my life reflects His glory.

2.  I decree that I walk in righteousness, holiness, and obedience to God’s Word.

3.  I declare that my faith is strong, and I will trust in God’s promises.

4.  I speak divine love into my heart, and I will walk in forgiveness.

5.  I declare that I am a light to my generation, shining the truth of God’s Kingdom.

6.  I decree that I will not conform to this world but will live by Kingdom principles.

7.  I prophesy that my life will be a testimony that draws others to Christ.

8.  I declare that I am an ambassador of Christ, expanding His Kingdom on earth.

9.  I decree that my resources and time will be used to glorify God.

10.  I declare that as I seek first the Kingdom, all other blessings will follow me.

May God help us to live daily as true Kingdom citizens, bringing honour to His name. Amen.