SCRIPTURE: Galatians 5:22-23 MSG But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely.
THOUGHT: I said recently God’s been challenging me with a thought I’m calling Parallel Kingdom (see March 12 and 22). And yes, that really was an online game using GPS to place the players in a virtual layer on top of their real location. The Parallel Kingdom I’m talking about, however, doesn’t have a virtual reality – both kingdoms are very real according to Scripture, and we walk in one by sight and the other by faith.
This passage from Galatians brings the Parallel Kingdom into sharper focus. When you walk that road, your attitudes start to elevate. Where you used to feel grumpy or hopeless, you feel more patience toward people and situations; there’s a new enthusiasm as God works out something you’ve submitted to him. Where once you looked at others with suspicion and even contempt for their beliefs and actions, you find a genuine affection and respect for each human. Where certain events might have once thrown you into panic-mode or some other reactive lizard-brain action, you now have practice in quieting your racing thoughts through prayer; a deep knowing that you aren’t in control, but God is.
No one walks in the Parallel Kingdom all of the time (unless they’ve gotten a promotion beyond this life!), so lay perfectionism down. But, hallelujah, there is a beautiful, timeless invitation. Walk there as often as you can. Stop forcing your way through life, trying to produce the fruit of the Spirit on your own. Instead, ask God to grow your vision and desire for the Parallel Kingdom way.
PRAYER: Lord God, elevate my thinking, my vision, my desires, my walking, my faith. Fill me with fruit of Spirit, and help me live your way.
Amy released a full-length book in early 2021, Walking When You’d Rather Fly: Meditations on Faith After the Fall. Maybe you’d like to check it out here.
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