Pathways Press.com

Written by Doug Webster, a contemporary pastor and founder of Jesuscollege.com.

Have you been “animated” lately where you were fired up, lively, or energized? If you want to unveil an important force in your life, be a student of your animation. It reveals the presence of a kingdom reality…To see this kingdom power unveiled, pay attention to the energy levels in your body – your words and your bodily actions. Our animation is a matter of our will – getting what we want, fearing we won’t get what we want or wanting what we think others should get. Even if it is goodwill, we can still get highly animated although we are usually more animated seeking what we want or not getting what we want…Jesus says out of the heart come “thoughts” – evil or good. When I act, either in sin or for the good, thoughts spur my action. To act is a progression of thought, inclination and readiness to act. A thief is not just one who steals but one who would steal if the opportunity arose. A thief thinks about stealing, is inclined to steal and ready to steal if he can get away with it. Same applies to adultery, divorce, retaliation, judging, etc. The desire lies in the heart not just the action. I don’t just steal. I am a thief. I don’t just lie. I am a liar. I don’t just sin. I’m a sinner…How do we seek the Kingdom of God?  First, trust His Kingdom is “at hand” to anyone, anytime, even the poor and persecuted. (Matthew 4:17, 5:3 & 10) Then, entrust to His Kingdom the people you care about while you stand with Jesus in a loving, joyful, peaceful way. We can listen with confidence knowing God will speak His wisdom (not our opinions) when the person has ears to hear and eyes to see His Kingdom reality. We let go of managing the results. We release control. We operate in His royal law of agape love as we surrender our governance. We don’t just do good. We become a good person who loves like Jesus in a good way.

Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness. [Matthew 6:33]