THE KINGDOM OF GOD IS SPIRITUAL, NOT MATERIAL

 You shall not be stranded because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.

Good -Life Devotional: THE KINGDOM IS SPIRITUAL NOT MATERIAL 

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

Romans 14:17 says:

"For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit." (AMP)

    This verse provides a foundation for understanding Christian liberty and priorities in the kingdom of God. 

1. THE KINGDOM OF GOD IS SPIRITUAL, NOT MATERIAL

   Paul teaches that God's kingdom transcends physical practices like eating and drinking, which were contentious issues in the early church (e.g., dietary laws, meat sacrificed to idols). Instead, it emphasizes the spiritual . Possessing great material wealth is not proof that God approves of a person or ministry . 

   John 4:23-24: "But a time is coming and is already here when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father seeks such people to be His worshipers. God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth."

This supports the idea that God’s kingdom is focused on spiritual truth, not outward rituals. Also the bible says in 1 Corinthians 8:8: "Now food will not bring us closer to God; we are no worse off if we do not eat, nor are we better if we do."

Paul reiterates that dietary matters are inconsequential to one’s relationship with God.

2. RIGHTEOUSNESS IN THE KINGDOM

Righteousness is central to the kingdom. It involves living rightly before God and others, reflecting Christ’s character.

  The bible says in Matthew 6:33: "But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also."

This verse highlights prioritizing righteousness over material concerns.

The bible says in Romans 3:22: "This righteousness of God comes through faith in Jesus Christ for all those [Jew or Gentile] who believe and trust in Him [and acknowledge Him as God’s Son]."

Righteousness is a gift of faith, underscoring its spiritual nature.

3. PEACE IN THE KINGDOM

Peace in the kingdom is both relational and internal, stemming from reconciliation with God and unity among believers.

The bible says in John 14:27: "Peace I leave with you; My [perfect] peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid."

True peace comes from Jesus, not external circumstances. It also says in Ephesians 4:3: "Make every effort to keep the oneness of the Spirit in the bond of peace [each individual working together to make the whole successful]."

Peace within the community of believers reflects God’s kingdom.

4. JOY IN THE HOLY SPIRIT

Joy in the kingdom is a supernatural delight rooted in God’s presence and work in our lives.

Psalm 16:11: "You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; in Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore."

God’s presence is the source of ultimate joy.

The bible says in Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit [the result of His presence within us] is love [unselfish concern for others], joy, [inner] peace, patience [not the ability to wait, but how we act while waiting], kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control."

Joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit, an essential part of the kingdom. God's kingdom prioritizes inner transformation over external practices. This perspective helps counter legalism or disputes over non-essentials (e.g., dietary laws or rituals), focusing instead on what truly matters: living righteously, pursuing peace, and experiencing the Spirit’s joy.

PRAYER : Heavenly Father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as lord and saviour and receive the Holy Spirit and power to live in righteousness.

+2348035536911, +2348098536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com