Many believers have a limited concept of the Kingdom of God, frequently seeing it through the prism of outward or physical reality.  This mistake produces a concentration on monetary benefits, ceremonies, or external religious activities rather than on the genuine nature of the Kingdom.  The Apostle Paul, in Romans 14:17, corrects this by teaching that the Kingdom is not about worldly things but about spiritual virtues—righteousness, peace, and joy that arise from the Holy Spirit.

To truly appreciate this, we must first recognize that the Kingdom of God is primarily a world of spiritual power and heavenly principles, rather than material riches or prestige.  The Kingdom functions by a higher law—the law of the Spirit—and it transforms the believer within before emerging outside.

Righteousness in the Kingdom is not only moral conduct or human effort.  It is the proper standing with God, provided and maintained via the Spirit’s power.  This righteousness helps us to live pure and triumphant lives, reflecting the character of Christ in our everyday action.

Peace, as stated in this verse, is a heavenly peace that shields our hearts and thoughts.  It is not the absence of conflict but the presence of God’s control and confidence even in the midst of storms.  When we comprehend the Kingdom accurately, our peace becomes unshakeable because it relies on the unchanging essence of God.

Joy in the Holy Ghost is another crucial virtue.  This pleasure is not dependent on circumstances or ephemeral feelings but rather a continuous condition originating from our deep contact with the Spirit.  It empowers us to celebrate always, regardless of the challenges we experience.

Understanding these spiritual underpinnings uncovers the “missing link” to leading a flourishing Kingdom life.  Once we realize that the Kingdom is about what God’s Spirit generates in us, we begin to walk in more authority, victory, and manifestation of God’s power on earth.

THINGS TO NOTE

1. Kingdom Reality Is Spiritual: The Kingdom is not defined by physical things but by spiritual transformation.
2. Righteousness Is Imputed and Imparted: It is a gift from God through faith and the Holy Spirit, not something we achieve by works alone.
3. Peace Guards the Believer: True peace protects our hearts even when external pressures rise.
4. Joy Is Spirit-Driven: It is an inner delight that cannot be stolen by circumstances.
5. Focus on the Holy Ghost: The Spirit is the essence and power of the Kingdom in us.
6. The Kingdom Overrides Natural Laws: Spiritual laws bring supernatural results, breaking through natural limitations.
7. Practical Living: Cultivate these virtues daily through prayer, meditation on the Word, and yielding to the Spirit’s leading.
8. Kingdom Living Is Victory Living: Walking in these truths brings manifestation of God’s will and power in every area of life.