Living as Citizens of Heaven

based on the sermon, “Kingdom Characteristics” by Pastor M. Hamilton
Click here to listen to the full message.
 
When we hear the word “kingdom,” many of us might think of grand castles or far-off places. But what does it really mean to live as citizens of God’s kingdom here on earth? It’s not about following a bunch of rules or just going through religious motions. Kingdom living is about reflecting the heart and nature of God in everything we do.
 
One of the best places to start understanding this is in Matthew 5:1-7. This is the beginning of Jesus’ famous Sermon on the Mount, where He shares the Beatitudes -- a set of blessings that show us the attitudes God desires from His people. You might already know them, but they’re worth revisiting: 
 
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. 
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. 
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled. 
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.” 
 
These blessings aren’t just nice words; they reveal the core characteristics we need to live a kingdom life. It’s about being humble, broken-hearted, hungry for what’s right, and full of mercy. Let’s dive into what these kingdom characteristics really look like and how they can transform the way we live every day.

The first and most foundational characteristic of living in God’s kingdom is being poor in spirit. This doesn’t mean lacking confidence or self-worth; it means recognizing the truth of our spiritual condition without God. It’s the realization that no matter how gifted, smart, successful, or “spiritual” we appear, we are still utterly dependent on His mercy and grace. It is a posture of humility that says, “God, I need You --today, tomorrow, and forever.”
 
To be poor in spirit is to approach God with open hands and an open heart, acknowledging our weaknesses and trusting in His strength. It’s the opposite of spiritual pride. Sometimes, when we grow in our faith or serve consistently in ministry, we may unintentionally begin to rely on our efforts rather than His presence. But Jesus reminds us that His kingdom is for those who know they need Him, not those who act like they have it all together.
 
When we remember how far God has brought us, when we reflect on our story of redemption, it stirs deep gratitude and keeps us grounded in humility. That’s the soil where God’s kingdom grows in hearts that are desperate for Him, not distracted by self-sufficiency. If you want to experience the fullness of the kingdom, begin by laying down your pride and embracing the truth that without God, you have nothing; and with Him, you have everything.

The second characteristic Jesus highlights is mourning -- not just grieving over loss, but mourning over sin, brokenness, and the weight of our own spiritual condition. It’s about allowing ourselves to be honest and vulnerable before God. In a world that constantly pressures us to look perfect, sound strong, and hide our struggles, Jesus invites us to come undone in His presence.
 
Think about the woman in Luke 7 who wept at Jesus’ feet. Her tears weren’t about embarrassment or shame -- they were a holy surrender. She mourned over her past, but she also saw Jesus as the only One who could give her a future. That kind of mourning -- spiritual mourning -- is powerful. Jesus said, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” There’s divine comfort reserved for those who choose to be real with God.
 
We must resist the urge to present polished versions of ourselves to God. He doesn’t want performance; He wants truth. Brokenness is not a liability in the kingdom; it’s an invitation. When we bring our pain, regrets, and raw honesty to Him, He meets us with healing, grace, and transformation. Mourning is the doorway to comfort. And only those who enter through that door can experience the tender, redemptive embrace of a Savior who restores.

We’re in a spiritual battle, and our young people are on the front lines. Culture is loud, and the enemy is working hard to blur truth and confuse identity—but God is speaking louder. His Spirit is moving, and He’s raising up a generation to walk boldly in truth.
 
To every young person: you are not here by accident. You are anointed, equipped, and called to stand strong. That anointing isn’t just for church; it’s for your everyday life.  
You weren’t made to blend in; you were made to stand out in holiness. Stay rooted in God’s Word, led by His Spirit, and connected to your spiritual family. The world needs young people who won’t bow to culture but will rise with conviction and courage. 

Religion can easily become a performance—something we do to be seen, recognized, or validated. But God is not impressed with outward displays. He’s drawn to inward devotion. That’s why Jesus praised the woman with the alabaster box who knelt at His feet and poured out her worship in humility and tears. She wasn’t interested in titles, positions, or public approval. She just wanted Him.
 
In the kingdom of God, everything flows from intimacy. And intimacy starts at His feet. Sitting at Jesus’ feet means prioritizing His presence over platform. It means choosing quiet moments with Him over the noise of busyness. It’s where pride is stripped away and our hearts are softened by His voice.
 
There’s a temptation, especially in church culture, to chase recognition. To desire leadership roles, microphones, or influence. But none of that matters if we’ve stopped sitting at His feet. You can gain a position and lose your posture. You can build a name and miss His voice. 
 
Let your hunger for God outweigh your hunger for visibility. Be the one who lingers in His presence long after others have moved on. Be the one who serves when no one is watching. That’s where the oil flows. That’s where transformation happens. That’s where the kingdom moves—not through outward religion, but through surrendered hearts laid low before a holy God.

Living as a citizen of God’s kingdom isn’t about appearances or achievements; it’s about heart posture. It starts with being poor in spirit, recognizing our deep need for God. It flows through mourning over sin and brokenness, not to wallow in shame, but to be comforted and transformed. It shows up in how we stand, especially the next generation, in a world that’s constantly pushing against truth. And it matures at the feet of Jesus, where humility and surrender unlock the power and presence of God.
 
This kind of living doesn’t happen by accident. It takes intentionality. It takes daily surrender. It takes choosing the way of the kingdom, even when the way of the world seems easier or more rewarding. But here’s the promise: when we walk in these kingdom characteristics, we don’t just survive -- we thrive. We become living witnesses of God’s heart on the earth.
 
So, ask yourself today:

• Am I building a kingdom life from the inside out?
• Am I desperate for Him?
• Broken before Him?
• Standing in Him?
• Sitting at His feet?

Because that’s where it all begins -- and that’s where His power is released.

Heavenly Father, 
 
Thank You for calling us into Your kingdom and showing us how to walk with You. Help us to stay humble and aware of our deep need for You every day. Teach us to come before You with honest, broken hearts that long for more of You.  
 
Pour out Your Spirit on our young people -- fill them with boldness, purpose, and truth. Protect them from the lies of this world and strengthen them to stand firm in Your Word. 
Give parents and leaders the wisdom and perseverance to pray and lead well. Let our homes and churches be places where Your kingdom thrives and where this next generation is raised to know, love, and follow You. We trust You, God. Transform hearts, heal wounds, and raise up a generation that walks boldly in Your name.  
 
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.