One who is proven is . . . unshaken.
A kingdom that cannot be shaken.
Hebrews 12:28
Let’s continue the story of “one who is proven.” The one who is proven (from I Peter 1:7, “the one whose faith is genuinely proven”) represents one who has resolved that the shifting and uncertain circumstances do not create the ultimate reality. For one who is proven has feet firmly on a greater reality – on solid ground.
The one who is proven does not represent a certain generation, culture, or a certain religious affiliation. The one who is proven represents the Kingdom. And, the Kingdom of Jesus is unshaken.
Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe. (Hebrews 12:28)
The world around us crumbles and shakes; His kingdom does not. (So, if you feel your life is crumbling and shaking, you might be spending too much time on the wrong turf.) The more you live in the reality of His kingdom the less you feel the shaking of your surroundings. And, although the trials are unwelcomed by most, the trials are indeed the refinement process. As I Peter 1:7 describes, the shaking around you can prove your faith genuine, even as fire proves the genuineness of pure gold. And while the shaking continues, your life stands proven. Tried and tested. Refined as by fire. And, this is only possible as you build upon Jesus and His unshakable kingdom.
While we understand that “the things that can be shaken will be shaken” (Hebrews 12:27), the one proven can be thankful for being a citizen in the unshakable kingdom of God. The kingdom, the rule and reign of God in our hearts through the reconciling grace of Jesus, creates within us a “new creation” – a new existence in this ever-changing world. Because this is a work of God, this remains secure, unchangeable and unshakable. Your citizenship in His kingdom is a reality now (Colossians 1:13) that will be ultimately fulfilled in the age to come. And this reality does not shake, though all else may crumble and fall:
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.” (Psalm 46:1-2)
The kingdom of God! This is the blessed hope and present reality of our place with God through Christ our Lord. And as described in Hebrews 12:28, to this blessed thought our response should be that of worship (indicating the right spiritual course and focus of our lives), reverence (a constant awareness of the presence of God), and awe (recognition of the overwhelming majesty of God). Today, take joy in your citizenship in the kingdom of God. Worship Him with reference and awe. Be thankful. Though all else crumbles and shakes, you can remain unshaken as your feet rest solidly upon the truth of God, the Lordship of Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit’s presence with you. And, as you remain unshaken, your faith becomes proven to those around you who need the witness of God’s unchanging faithfulness. – His unshakable kingdom.
So today, a question remains: “do you live more as a citizen of God’s kingdom, or a citizen of this world? May we all live unshaken!
Blessings.
READ
Read Hebrews 12:27-29 and Psalm 46:1-11.
