Jesus teaches us that the kingdom of God is not an external reality we observe, but an internal transformation that happens within our hearts. In Matthew 6, He instructs us to seek first this kingdom rather than worrying about material needs. The revolutionary truth is that God's primary interest isn't in building physical temples or establishing earthly influence—it's in reigning in our surrendered hearts.This kingdom is characterized by righteousness (right relationships with God and others), peace (harmony with God's purposes), and joy (the delight of the Holy Spirit's presence). Ironically, many find it easier to build external structures than to fully surrender their hearts, emotions, and desires to God. Maintaining a kingdom mindset means staying grateful for our undeserved salvation and extending that same grace to others. The story of Onesimus in Paul's letter to Philemon beautifully illustrates these kingdom principles—we were once slaves to sin, but Christ has transformed us into beloved family members. When life's pressures squeeze us, what comes out reveals what's truly inside. The invitation is to surrender completely, allowing God to use everything, even difficulties, to purify our hearts and transform us from the inside out.
