In the Bible we see God has many different names and titles. He is the Good Shepherd; Father; Helper; Light of the World; Lord of Lords and King of Kings. Today we are going to look at just one of these names, and why naming and speaking to God as our King is so relevant for us today.
So, why do we need a King in our lives? Because as far as I can see, the world likes to tell us that we should be independent. That all that matters is making ourselves happy and following our own ways and standards. Surely having a King, is a bit archaic and not really needed anymore!
Films give us some great examples of Kings:
- King Peter (Narnia) – Strong and Powerful. He is trusted to hold a sword, be on the front line with the people, and win the battles. People feel confident to stand beside him through anything that they may face.
- King T’Challa (Black Panther) – Full of integrity. From the moment he becomes the king, His mother says ‘You decide what type of King you will be’ – He then goes on to establish his kingship in a way that is honest, true to himself and is bringing the best for those around him.
- Mufasa (The Lion King) – Openhearted and compassionate. His kingdom exists in a loving balance, he is kind to his brother even though he might not seem to deserve his love, and he gives his life to protect and save.
However, these are all fictional.
But there is one living King who has perfectly displayed the attributes of a great King:
- Integrity: Jesus was tempted in the desert for 40 days and never once wavered. He held onto the word of God as His defence and attack.
- Openhearted and compassionate: Jesus’ entire life reflects His love for all people. He healed the sick, raised the dead, fed the hungry, preached the Kingdom of God, and fought for His disciples and the church.
- Hardworking: Jesus is always working to advance the Kingdom of God and draw people near to Him. He imitates the father, the creator, who is working to bring about His purposes and plans.
- Well-spoken and wise: People flocked around Jesus to hear His stories and unpacking of the scriptures they knew and wanted to understand more.
- Strong and powerful: John 13 v 3 says ‘Jesus knew that the father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God’ – nothing and no one has more power or holds more victory that Jesus!
- Blesses the lives of others: Jesus never stopped serving others. He loved those who were outcast, and He changed people’s lives just by calling their names.
- Provides order: Jesus’ death on the cross and His resurrection provides the final piece of the puzzle, the final victory. It enables us to step into an everlasting relationship with God, that nothing and no one can break or destroy.
When we recognise all of this in Jesus, we can see Him as a wonderful King. The type of King who we would want to have in our lives. And we get the opportunity to have a personal relationship with Him. To enjoy all that He does and provides for us and all that He is.
So, maybe society preaches that we don’t need a King, but knowing all that Jesus is for/to me, means I definitely want one! How about you?
1 comment
?