When Jesus invited us to pray, “Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10), what was He getting at?

Jesus talked about His kingdom a lot. He said things like…

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:3)

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)

“The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so the birds come and perch in its branches.” (Matthew 13:31-32)

“My kingdom is not of this world.” (John 18:36)

Many have grappled with what Jesus meant when He talked about the kingdom. To simplify things, Christ’s kingdom is wherever He rules and reigns. Ultimately, Christ will rule on the earth. However, in the meantime, He rules and reigns in our hearts as we follow Him.

When we pray, “Your Kingdom come, Your will be done,” we are saying:

Lord, take your rightful place; come and rule in my heart. I surrender to your lordship in every area of my life. Bring my heart into perfect alignment with yours.

Lord, come rule and reign over my family. I receive your peace as I pray for each member of my family. I bring to your feet every concern and care.  I receive your peace and pray that each one may bow before your throne and submit to your authority.

Lord, let your kingdom come and your will be done at my workplace. May I live in alignment with your will so that your love flows out of me to every coworker.

Lord, Let your kingdom come and your will be done in my neighborhood. Rule and reign over my community. Let me be a beacon of light to my neighbors demonstrating the love of Christ in all I do. 

Lord, let your kingdom come to my nation and also to the world. For every person that does not yet know Jesus, may they turn towards Your love and bow before Your lordship. Help me to live according to the culture you outlined for your kingdom, poor in spirit, with a loving and generous heart. Let others experience your grace through me today. 

For more on The Lord’s Prayer, be sure to order your copy of Our Father.

This week on The Connected Mom Podcast we’re talking with Dr. Saundra Dalton Smith about how to have a conversation with your kids about racial diversity. This topic is SO important. Whether you have kids at home or you are a grandparent, PLEASE take time to listen this week.