August 26 Daily Devotional

Bible Reading

Devotional

In his letters to various churches the apostle Paul shows that he is politically alert and knowledgeable. In Philippians 3:20 he speaks about how we should behave as citizens of a nation. As members of Christ’s church our citizenship is in heaven. That determines how we are to live as citizens of a country. Our life should show that we are first and foremost citizens of the kingdom of heaven. Paul encourages us to act and speak spiritually since we are under the government and political rule of Jesus Christ. As Christians we have a dual citizenship—on earth and in heaven. God’s government is always just, principled, and free of corruption and scandals. He employs adults and children in His program and plan for the future. The task He gives is not dictated by the global economy but by the kingdom of heaven.

Paul’s statement, “our citizenship is in heaven,” would have struck a chord with the Philippian congregation. According to Acts 16:12 Philippi was a Roman colony. The people who lived in this city were considered citizens of Rome even though they lived in Greece. As citizens of a foreign city the people of Philippi made every effort to follow the customs and culture of Rome. They spoke the language of Rome, wore Roman clothes and were governed by Roman laws. They worshipped the Roman emperor and enjoyed the protection and peace of Rome.

Just as the citizens of Philippi are citizens of Rome, the members of the church are citizens of heaven. Members of Christ’s church are already citizens of heaven today. Paul is not talking about what we will be but what we are! That puts our definition of what it means to be a Christian on a higher level. A Christian is not someone who lives a morally pleasing life or one who is a notch better than the average citizen! Christians give their allegiance to their King and Head of State, Jesus Christ. He is supreme in their life. Our first concern is to do the will of God.

Having your citizenship in heaven, you are willing to fight for your homeland. You are ready to die for your heavenly country. You stand up for the cause of Jesus Christ without shrinking back in fear. May your daily conduct match your heavenly citizenship!