The Benefits of Citizenship

God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

 Romans 5:8

 

 

I am a citizen of the United States of America. I am proud of my citizenship and the benefits it brings. Among the privileges granted me by the Bill of Rights of our constitution are freedom of religion,  freedom of speech, the right to bear arms, due process of law and freedom from unreasonable searches and seizure.

We salute our flag and pledge our allegiance to it as a symbol of our support of America.  Many times children bring smiles to our lips as they misquote the pledge Examples are:

“…With liver, tea and just us four all”  ( Liberty and justice for all.)

“…And to the republic for witches dance”  (And to the republic for which it stands.)

“…My pleasure leisures to the flag of the invisible” (pledge allegiance to the flag ... invisible)

 

     

I hope you are proud of your country wherever it is. This week I want to discuss a citizenship we can all share no matter what country we live in. It is the citizenship of God’s kingdom. All nations, all races, and all ages can become a part of this eternal body.  The requirements are as easy as ABC.

You must admit that you are a sinner. All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus Romans 3:23.

You must believe. If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved Romans 10:9.

You must confess your sins. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness 1 John 1:9.

Now you are a bonafide citizen of the Kingdom of God. Make Christ the Lord of your life and depend on Him to lead you in each step you take. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight Proverbs 3:5, 6.

If you are a child of God, please pray for any who read this devotional and have not accepted Christ. If you are a citizen of God’s kingdom, rejoice and be glad. Your citizenship is eternal and you will reign with Christ when He comes again.

This week we are going to examine the benefits of citizenship in God’s kingdom. You will be reminded of God’s love and care for us.

Dear Father, Thank you for providing a Savior for us. Our citizenship is free because Jesus Christ paid the price for it on the cross. Salvation is the number one benefit of our citizenship in God’s kingdom.

Janice Yandell