What is the kingdom of God? Many of us find its meaning unclear or difficult to define. The Kingdom of God is the reign of God over all other kingdoms. When we hear the word “kingdom,” we might think of nations like the Netherlands, England, China, or the United States—countries that often compete or interact on the world stage. However, the first kingdom that God is really referring to is our own personal kingdom. Each of us wears an invisible spiritual crown and rules our own realm. As babies, we learn to say, NO, asserting our authority! Or as my son would say, “NO WAY!” Much of life, then, becomes a negotiation between our spiritual kingdoms and various compromises.

There are other kingdoms as well—business kingdoms, school kingdoms, and even a shadowy realm known as the kingdom of darkness. This kingdom operates by deceiving people, primarily through fear. The kingdom of darkness is rooted entirely in deception. Whenever we lie or distort the truth, we participate in this kingdom and allow its influence to spread in our lives and in the lives of others.

My friend, when we speak of the Kingdom of God, we mean that God’s reign brings goodness and restoration to all of these spiritual kingdoms. While that might sound daunting, it is not. Biblically, the Kingdom of God means “on earth as it is in Heaven.” Many Christians believe it’s solely about going to Heaven after we die. The true goal is for God’s heavenly reign to be experienced here and now. As we submit to God’s ways, the life of Heaven breaks into our world!