KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Romans 1:1-12
Day
1
Morning
“Called”
Paul followed the customary formula for letter writing by first identifying the author and then the
recipients. After that, the writer would include a personal greeting or salutation. With the exception of
Hebrews and 1 John, every letter in the New Testament followed this format. Paul first identified himself as
a “servant” of Christ. This word was used to describe someone who was literally owned by another. Paul
gladly identified himself as a servant and did so more than once (See Galatians 1:10 and Titus 1:1.) Then
Paul referred to himself as “an apostle” (literally, “sent one”) of the gospel. It is easy to trace the spiritual
growth in Paul’s life. He became a saint when he met Christ on the road to Damascus. He immediately
became a servant by asking for directions from God as to what he was to do from that point forward. He
eventually became a great soldier in the Lord’s Army – reaching the rank of apostle, or ambassador for
Christ.
It was his desire that all Christians recognize their calling. He quickly moved from the discussion of his
own calling to the calling of the Christians who were residing in Rome and the surrounding areas. They
were “called to be saints.” It is important to note that the calling of the Christians at Rome was no different
than the calling of the great preacher, Paul. Paul did not see their calling as being any less significant than
his own – and neither did the Holy Spirit! Notice that our calling is “to” something and not simply “from”
something. Our testimony should not focus only on what we were, but on what we are becoming!
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Consider your own personal calling to live for Christ. Surrender your life to him and follow him
faithfully. Kingdom Policy Number Eighty-One in God’s divine manual is: Our Christian calling
involves a new life and not the turning over of a new leaf.
Day
1
Evening
Evening Scripture: Romans 1:13-25
A Personal Obligation
Paul believed that he was a “debtor” (KJV) or that he was personally “obligated” (NIV) to share the gospel
with all people. The word translated “non-Greeks” in the NIV (v. 14) is literally translated “barbarians” in
the KJV. The Greeks would have shouted out a strong “Amen!” to that statement because they believed
that all of the other people of the world were unlearned, uncultured, and ignorant. Notice that Paul was
not just willing to preach the gospel to Gentiles, but that he was “ready” (KJV) or “eager” (NIV) to do so.
The importance that Paul placed on the “gospel” is evidenced by the fact that he used that repeatedly in the
opening chapter of this letter. (Take a moment to review the first 16 verses and mark them.)
Paul believed that the gospel was the power of God unto salvation and that it revealed the pathway to the
righteousness that God had provided for all that would come to him in faith. What we have read in
Romans 1:16-17 is pretty much the theme of the entire book.
Paul leaves no one with an excuse for not coming to Christ. He stated that the creation itself was enough
to reveal the existence of a Creator to all men. However, just as it is today, many chose to deny God and to
reject the relationship that was so graciously offered to them.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Ask God to give you a burden for those who do not yet know Christ. Pray for the salvation of your
friends and family members. Speak of Christ at every opportunity. Kingdom Policy Number
Eighty-Two: Don’t leave any unpaid spiritual debts behind when this life is over.
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Day
2
Morning
KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Romans 1:26 – 2:6
The “Exchange”
In the last verse of yesterday’s reading, we read where people had exchanged the truth of God for a lie and
had worshiped created things rather than the Creator. This morning’s Scripture includes the second
“exchange” that some people had made. Both men and women were seeking sexual pleasures in ways that
God described as “unnatural.” The Greek word employed there is used only in Romans 1:25 & 26 and then
once more in 1 Peter. The word was used to describe that which went against that which was instinctive or
of the inborn nature. However, many Christians today stop reading and start judging and condemning
when they come to these two verses. However, this specific “poor trade” is not the only one mentioned in
these verses. If we continue to read, we see that there are many other “exchanges” being made in those
who refuse to recognize God for who he is. The list resumes in verse 29 and includes such things as
unrighteousness and fornication and eventually includes gossip and even disobedience to parents. I am not
trying to soften the words of Romans 1:26-27 here. However, I am trying to say that our sin is also on this
list of “trade” items that rob people of the joy that comes from the life that God desires for us.
Notice that the Holy Spirit wisely begins to speak about those who are quick to pass judgment on others.
Verse 6 clearly states that each one of us will someday stand before God and be judged by him alone. It will
be too late to make any “trades” when that day comes.
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Ask God to reveal any bad exchanges that you have made so that you can repent and honor God in
your daily walk. Read again the words, “the same things” in 2:3 and ask God to apply that truth to
your heart. Kingdom Policy Number Eighty-Three: All sin is dishonoring to God and ultimately
leads to judgment.
Day
2
Evening
Evening Scripture: Romans 2:7-16
Even the “Secrets”
These verses do not contradict the clear teaching that salvation is a gift of God and not the result of works.
Paul never wavered from teaching that salvation is a result of placing one’s faith in what Jesus did on the
cross and not in the good works that we do in our lives. However, Paul is clear here that good works are
not a result of one’s natural birth – but, rather, the fruit that is lived out in the life that has experienced a
supernatural birth. This new birth is available to all who will place their faith in Christ. Verse 11 repeats a
constant theme of the Bible: God shows no favoritism. Both Jew and Gentile alike can know him and live in
his divine power and presence. Many people may try to live life in a way that will cause them to “appear” to
have this new birth, but God knows the heart! He alone can see into the “secret” motivations for our
actions. He alone knows whether or not our good works are a result of our relationship with him or our
desire to appear righteous to others. He sees the frustrations of those who try repeatedly to “walk the
straight and narrow” path without first walking the path to the cross. Only a true, personal relationship
with Jesus Christ can lead to genuine, heart-felt living for the honor and glory of God.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Check your motivations tonight. Be sure that your life is being lived for God’s glory and not
simply to be seen of men. Kingdom Policy Number Eighty-Four: God not only knows what we do,
but he knows why we do it.
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KINGDOM POLICIES
Day
3
Morning
Morning Scripture: Romans 2:17-29
“You, You, You!”
I am sure that the Jews who heard this section of Paul’s letter found themselves giving the writer a few
hearty, “Amens!” Paul spoke directly to the Jews and listed several things that they believed to be true
about their nation. They believed that they trusted in God’s law and had a right relationship with him.
They thought that they knew his will because they had been instructed in the law. They believed
themselves to be guides to the blind and a light to those who were in darkness. They saw themselves as
able instructors and teachers of the laws of God. And, because of this, they saw themselves as being
approved of God simply because of who they were. However, God’s Spirit desired that they take a hard
look at their own lives before they tried to tell others how to live. Notice that verses 21, 22, and 23 all begin
with “you” (“Thou” KJV). God was admonishing them to take a hard look at their own lives and see if they
were teaching one thing and living another. Circumcision was a physical, outward sign of the personal,
inward covenant that God had made with Israel. However, the Jews had come to believe that the keeping of
such physical acts as circumcision were guarantees of their spiritual relationship with God. Paul wanted
these readers, Jew and Gentile alike, to see that the true “mark” of a believer was not something that could
be made on the body – but that it had to be something that had eternally touched the soul.
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Examine your life daily. Live for the glory of God! Kingdom Policy Number Eighty-Five: Look to
the motivations of your heart and not the works of your hands to see where you really stand with God.
Day
3
Evening
Evening Scripture: Romans 3:1-12
Our Greatest Advantage
This chapter begins with a very important question. Paul asked his readers what advantage there was in
being born a Jew. He answered his own question in verse two when he concluded that there was “much”
advantage to the Jews. He then listed the first, and greatest, advantage available to God’s people. They had
been entrusted with the “oracles” (KJV) or “the very words” (NIV) of God! (Paul would speak of other
advantages later in chapter 9, but he elaborated on this one here in this section.) He wanted them to
understand that this great advantage brought with it a great responsibility! God’s law can bring us to only
one conclusion: That no one nation or race of people has an exclusive right to a relationship with God!
Notice the phrase, “As it is written” in verse 10. It is followed by a collection of quotations from the Old
Testament. Take a moment to circle the words “none” (KJV) or “no one” (NIV) in verses 10-12. Then circle
the word “all” and “together” and realize that our name could be written in that space where the word “all”
is included. This fact links us with every other sinner in the world. We are “together” with them in the
sense that we are powerless to save ourselves. Look for the nine phrases or words that Paul used in verses
9-12 to conclude that all have sinned.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Commit to the daily reading of God’s Word. Ask him to reveal Himself to you as you read every
paragraph and turn every page. Live out your faith in ways that will reveal him to those that you
connect with along life’s way. Kingdom Policy Number Eighty-Six: Having God’s Word is the
greatest advantage that we have today. Obeying God’s Word will lead to our greatest blessing.
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Day
4
Morning
KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Romans 3:13-23
“All Have Sinned”
We should be reminded that it was the Holy Spirit who inspired these words and who brought these
phrases from the Old Testament to Paul’s mind as he was writing. In this, we see the wisdom in letting
God’s Word speak to the hearts of those to whom we witness. We may be tempted to think that
condemning sin will bring conviction, but we should be continually reminded that it is the work of the
Holy Spirit to bring conviction. The root of all sin is found in verse 18. When there is no “fear” (reverential
respect) for God, then there is no inward reason to live out a life that brings praise to him. We are
reminded that the righteousness of God is given to us as a result of our faith being placed in Jesus Christ
and not as a result of any good deeds done on our part. In God’s eyes, we have all sinned and fallen far
short of his glory. There is a strong temptation to compare ourselves to others, but it is against God’s own
Son that we will all be measured. When we read about Jesus, and all of his love, kindness, generosity,
humility and holiness, we should remind ourselves that he was an illustration of all that God had meant for
us to be. When we compare ourselves to him, we can clearly see that we have fallen short of God’s
intentions for our lives. You should write “John 3:16” in the margin next to Romans 3:23 because the Greek
word for “all” in Romans 3:23 is the same word that is translated “whosoever” in John 3:16!
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Day
4
Evening
Avoid the temptation to compare yourself to others. Remind yourself that God’s divine standard is
the perfect life lived by his only begotten Son. Humble yourself before him and thank him for your
salvation! Kingdom Policy Number Eighty-Seven: We all fall short of the divine standard set by
Christ Jesus.
Evening Scripture: Romans 3:24 – 4:3
“Justified!”
Just as surely as all people are sinners – all of the saved are justified freely by God’s grace through the
redemption that was purchased by the blood of Jesus Christ. Paul used this verb 22 times in his letter to
the Romans. It is a word that clearly indicated that one had been declared to be righteous or innocent. It
does not imply that the evidence of one’s own life has proven them to be innocent. However, it does declare
that the sacrifice of God’s own Son has paid our sin debt and allowed God to pronounce us innocent! Allow
this thought to sink in: Justified does not simply mean that we have been found “not guilty.” It goes much
farther than that. It states that we are “righteous” before God and that he sees no sin in us whatsoever! An
old preacher once explained the term “justified” by explaining that it meant that God saw him, “Just if I’d”
never even sinned! Through the blood of Christ, God cancels our sin debt and then credits us with the very
righteousness of his perfect Son! Verse 25 clearly teaches that Christ became our atoning sacrifice. The
word “atone” meant to “satisfy.” Salvation has always been a gift from God. We are wrong to think that
those in the Old Testament were saved by anything other than grace. Where would Paul find such an idea?
Notice Romans 4:3. Paul got it from the “Scripture.” Look at Genesis 15:6 and see it for yourself! As you
read these words, be reminded that Abram kept no law or performed no ritual prior to being “credited”
with righteousness. He had simply believed God’s promises!
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Make much of your salvation this evening! Praise God for the love that would send his own Son as
a substitute for our sins and a provider for our salvation and righteousness. Ask God to allow you
to see yourself as he sees you. Kingdom Policy Number Eighty-Eight: The blood of Christ has
allowed us to be made righteous, holy and innocent in the sight of God.
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KINGDOM POLICIES
Day
5
Morning
Morning Scripture: Romans 4:4-15
The Example of David
David’s praise and appreciation for God’s amazing ability to forgive and cleanse is sighted in these verses.
The “evidence” against David was strong and compelling. He had sinned against God and his fellow man in
several terrible, premeditated acts. He paid a dear price for his personal indulgences and suffered greatly
for his sins. However, when he turned to God in genuine repentance and threw himself upon God’s mercy,
he received forgiveness and believed that his sins were “covered.” This verse is the only place where this
Greek word was ever used in the New Testament. It is a word that means to be completely covered over or
hidden. David considered himself “blessed” because God had covered his sin and would never “impute”
(KJV) or “count” (NIV) it against him. Paul makes it clear that the promises to Abraham and David are not
for the Jews only. Abraham was credited with righteousness before his circumcision and not because of it!
Circumcision was an outward sign of the great work that God had done in Abraham. Verse 11 clearly states
that Abraham was declared to be righteous before he performed any good work or spiritual deed and that
he is the father of all who believe, including the Gentiles. There is only one way of salvation for all people
and that is the way of faith and not through one’s own personal efforts to keep the law. The law was not
given to save us, but to steer us towards the One who would cover our own sins with his righteousness.
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Refuse to allow Satan to deceive you into thinking that you are the one exception to God’s rule. By
that, I mean, do not allow Satan to think that your sin is any more grievous than that of any other
person. The blood of Jesus was shed so that you could take it personally! Amen! Kingdom Policy
Number Eighty-Nine: It is by God’s grace that the sinner is redeemed and the saint is
continually restored.
Day
5
Evening
Evening Scripture: Romans 4:16-25
A Father of Many Nations
Through faith, all people can become the spiritual descendants of Abraham! We trace our spiritual “family
tree” not through our physical birth but through our spiritual birth. By faith we are born into God’s family
and made direct heirs of all of his promises. When you read the promises that God made to Abraham in
Genesis 17 you can clearly see that God had the peoples of Canaan in mind when he promised salvation by
faith. Romans 4:17 clearly identifies Abraham as the father of believing Jews and Gentiles alike. Just as
surely as the promised son, Isaac was born well after Abraham and Sarah had the physical power to
produce offspring, so are we born into the kingdom through the supernatural providence of God. Isaac was
born “against all hope” – nevertheless, he was born! Long after the “hope” of Abraham and Sarah had
grown weak, the hope of God’s promises remained strong. Faith kept Abraham from wavering and allowed
him to accept God’s promises as they were stated to him. It is our faith alone that will keep us strong in
our spiritual lives. We must be constantly claiming God’s promises as we read his Word and allow it to do
its work in our hearts. When we do this, we will, like Abraham, give “glory to God” (v. 20).
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Remember to continually see your personal salvation as a miraculous gift from a loving and
gracious God. Never forget that our salvation was purchased at the price of God giving his only
begotten Son. Kingdom Policy Number Ninety: Through Christ, every Christian can have
complete confidence in God’s promises.
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KINGDOM POLICIES
Day
6
Morning
Morning Scripture: Romans 5:1-11
Peace and Joy
Through faith we have been justified (as in “Just if I’d” never sinned) and that allows us to have peace with
God. This peace is not merely a “peace of mind.” It literally means that we are at “peace” with God
because we have entered into an entirely new relationship with him. We were once at enmity with him
(see verse 10) and now we are his friends. Verse 2 tells us that our faith has granted us “access” into the
presence of God and there is no longer any separation between us and our Creator. But notice the four
words that close verse 1 and are the central point of verses 1 and 2:“Our Lord Jesus Christ!” You can rest
assured that he is the central figure in God’s great redemption plan that has moved us from being a part of
the “all have sinned” of Romans 3:23 and has now made us a part of the “we” of Romans 5:1! Because of this
we can “glory” (KJV) or “rejoice” (NIV) even in our sufferings. One of the reasons that we “rejoice” in our
tribulations is because we know that they are part of God’s perfecting process for the believer. Look again
at verses 3 – 5 and see how suffering follows a direct path to hope! It has been said that, if one could place a
hand on the front and back covers of their Bible and push them together, compressing all of God’s Word
into one statement, that statement would be the last four words of Romans 5:8:“Christ died for us!”
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Ask yourself, “Am I really at peace with God?” Trust him enough to allow him to turn your
sufferings and trials into hope, peace and joy. Kingdom Policy Number Ninety-One: God never
fails or disappoints those who place their trust in him!
Day
6
Evening
Evening Scripture: Romans 5:12-21
Adam vs. Christ
Paul sets a definite contrast between our earthly father, Adam, and our spiritual redeemer, Christ. Verse 12
begins with “Wherefore” (KJV) or “Therefore” (NIV). The literal meaning is, “because of this.” This
transitional word indicates that the comparison that Paul is about to make between Adam and Jesus is to
allow us to see what God has saved us from and what he has saved us to! Through Adam came sin,
condemnation, and death (v. 12). Through Jesus came justification and life that was offered to “all men”
(v. 18). This does not mean that “all men” (everyone) will be saved, but it does mean that “all men”
(everyone) could be saved if they would only come to Christ! Through the “disobedience” of Adam, sin was
passed down from generation to generation (see again v. 12). But through the “obedience” of Christ all men
can be made righteous (v. 19). It is important to note that this righteousness denotes our cleansing and our
standing in Christ and not necessarily our character and our standing in this world. Although we are
“righteous” before God because of what we have inherited from Christ, we are still living in a body that we
have inherited from Adam. And thus, the conflict between “law and grace” (v. 20) begins! The law cannot
bring redemption. It was never designed to do so. The law was given to stress our need for redemption –
and it does a really good job of that! The law drives us to grace and grace introduces us to Jesus!
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Review your day and ask yourself: “Who did I most resemble today? Adam or Christ?” Accept
the fact that you, because of the cross, now stand righteous before God! Commit to being a
follower of Jesus and not Adam. Kingdom Policy Number Ninety-Two: For the believer, the
answer to every “how” question is, “Through Jesus Christ our Lord” (v. 21)!
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KINGDOM POLICIES
Day
7
Morning
Morning Scripture: Romans 6:1-14
“Sanctification 101”
Today’s preaching tends to “shun” the “tion” words! However, there are some important Biblical terms
with which every believer should become familiar if they are to fully understand what was fully
accomplished at the cross. In the earlier chapters of Romans, Paul has carefully explained “redemption”
and “justification.” He is now going to begin an explanation of “sanctification” that will continue through
chapter 8. The progression here is consistent with every story of the Bible. Man must first understand and
accept redemption and justification before he can ever understand (much less experience) sanctification.
Unfortunately, many try to start their walk with God here and soon give up in complete and total
frustration! But for those who have been “redeemed” (bought back) from the slave block of sin – and for
those who have been “justified” by the blood of Jesus – being “sanctified” (literally – “set apart for service”)
is the most obvious option.
Chapter six deals with our being “sanctified” (set apart) from sin and death. Paul explains that we “died” to
sin (v. 2), were “buried” (v. 4), and that we were “raised” (resurrected) to live a new life in Christ! Imagine
that! The Gospel of Jesus is to be lived out through those for whom he died, was buried, and rose again!
Sanctification is the process that moves us from being “witnesses” of Adam (death) to being “witnesses” of
Jesus (new, eternal life). It is all a matter of who you decide to let reign in your life!
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Memorize Romans 6:12! Write it out on a card and put it in your pocket or purse. Keep it with
you and refer to it every time you are tempted to allow the flesh to run your life! Kingdom Policy
Number Ninety-Three: Believers are not doomed to be slaves to sin!
Day
7
Evening
Evening Scripture: Romans 6:15-23
Who Are You Serving?
Some believers were concerned that Paul’s teaching on grace would lead to a belief that believers could live
any way that they wanted to with no consequences. After all, if God, by grace, has completely forgiven us
and made us righteous before him (“redemption” and “justification”) then what would keep people from
thinking that they did not need to live in a new and different way (“sanctification”)? Paul’s response is to
explain that redemption, justification, and sanctification will direct those who have experienced them to a
path of committed service to Christ. This commitment is a result of a “heart” decision to be obedient to the
things that we are taught from the Word of God (v. 17). Few believers ever become committed servants of
Christ without first becoming committed students of the Word! After all, aren’t Christ and his Word one
and the same? How can we ignore God’s Word without also ignoring God’s Son? Verse 20 speaks of what
we were: “Slaves to sin” and “out of control!” Verse 22 speaks of what we are: “Free from sin” and “servants
of God!” Verse 23 explains the wage plan for all servants. Those who serve sin, and the flesh, will receive
“death” (eternal separation from God) while those who follow the path of redemption, justification, and
sanctification will receive “eternal life” through Jesus Christ!
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Don’t stop at just being saved, but press on and be a servant of Christ! Kingdom Policy Number
Ninety-Four: Salvation frees us from a life controlled by sin and motivates us to a life committed to
service!
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8
Morning
KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Romans 7:1-13
“Sanctification 201”
In “Sanctification 101” (Romans 6) we learned that we are saved from sin’s control. In “Sanctification 201”
we will learn that we are also saved from sin’s condemnation. Most believers are very familiar with Romans
8:1, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” It is a wonderful verse,
but the “therefore” reminds us that the statement is being made on the basis of something that has been
said previously. That something is the wonderful truth found here in Romans 7! Paul used the illustration
of a woman who was bound (obligated) to her husband as long as he was alive. The main focus of these
verses is to help us to understand that death dissolves legal obligations. People do not prosecute dead
people. They do not sue them nor do they put them in prison. They certainly do not execute them for
their past transgressions. Verse 4 contains a very important truth. It states that we, as believers, “died to
the law through the body of Christ that (we) might belong to another.” The word translated “died” in that
would literally be translated “were slain.” As such, Paul concludes that, when Christ died on the cross for
us, our obligation (sin debt) to the law died there with him. Read Romans 6:5-8 again and circle the words
that indicate that we died with Christ and that we have now been made free from sin and its binding
obligations (v. 7).
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Day
8
Evening
Refuse to accept the guilt, shame and condemnation that Satan will try to cast your way. Know
that you have been made free from your sin debt, and its control over your life. Say “Thank you!” to
Jesus this morning. Kingdom Policy Number Ninety-Five: Believers are to live free of sin’s control
and condemnation.
Evening Scripture: Romans 7:14-25
Constant Conflict
Like Paul, we are often very critical of ourselves. We have some good things that we know that we desire to
do for God, but we seem to fall short of getting them done. We have wrong things in our lives that we say
that we are never going to do again, and then, sadly, we find ourselves doing them. And we, like Paul, can
offer no acceptable explanation for our failures. We, like him, have to say, “I do not understand!” Here is a
simple explanation for the constant conflict that every Christian must face. Salvation does not mean that
God has “fixed” our old nature. So, every Christian still has the ability to sin. However, salvation does
mean that we have been given a new nature. That new nature has no appetite for sin. As such, we have an
old nature that still has the ability to walk in the flesh and we have a new nature that has no desire to do so.
At the same time, we have a new nature that has the ability to walk in the Spirit while we have an old
nature that has no appetite, or desire, to do so. What is the result? We find ourselves in a constant
struggle to do that which we know to be spiritual and good. And what complicates things even further is
that, even when we are doing good things, our old nature is right there with us trying to taint our efforts
with such things as pride and selfish ambition (v. 21)! In verse 24, Paul makes a statement that is followed
by a question. “What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death?” The answer for
him is still the answer for us today! “Thanks be to God – through Jesus Christ our Lord!”
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Remember that we are not just saved from sin, but that we are saved to a life of service to Jesus
Christ. Kingdom Policy Number Ninety-Six: Believers must focus on what Christ wants us to
become in him and make sure that the new nature is nourished enough to grow!
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KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Romans 8:1-12
Day
9
Morning
“Sanctification 301”
The Holy Spirit dominates this chapter of the Bible – and rightfully so! If Sanctification 101 and 201 taught
us that we could be free from sin’s control and condemnation, then this graduate level of study on
sanctification (Romans 8) will teach us how we can live under the Spirit’s control. It is important for us to
review and understand that sanctification is about our service and not our salvation. Paul’s struggles in
Romans 6 & 7 were not about being saved. In fact, if Paul had not been saved, he would have never had
that inner conflict going on in his life! But, since he was saved, God’s Spirit now lived in him and was
leading him to live in a way that would bring honor and glory to Christ. As the latter part of Romans 8:4
states, Paul was to no longer live “after” (KJV) or “according to” (NIV) the flesh, but “after” (KJV) or
“according to” (NIV) the Spirit. Every Christian must come to the understanding that we cannot please
God without being in harmony (or accord) with the indwelling Holy Spirit. When we allow God’s Spirit to
lead our every step, we are going to learn to walk in ways that please God. When we listen more to our old
nature (the flesh) we are going to lead lives that are more in harmony (or accord) with the sin than with
God. In verse 12, Paul reminds us that we, as believers, are “debtors” (KJV) or that we “have an obligation”
(NIV) not to the old nature, but unto God.
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Pray much about your daily walk. Seek to be a witness for God’s glory in all that you think, say and
do. Kingdom Policy Number Ninety-Seven: Joyful believers walk in harmony with the Spirit and
not the flesh.
Day
9
Evening
Evening Scripture: Romans 8:13-23
“Adoption”
The Greek word translated “adoption” in Romans 8:23 is also translated “adoption” in verse 15 in the KJV
and other translations while it is translated “sonship” in the NIV. This word is used sparingly in the NT –
only five times in all with three of those times being found in Romans. Paul is the only New Testament
writer to use this term. Perhaps the best way to understand the way that this word is used in the first two
places in Romans is to understand how it is used in the third, and final, place that it is found in the book.
In Romans 9:4, Paul speaks of Israel and uses this word to describe the special place that was given to this
nation as the chosen people of God. This helps us to understand more about our own relationship with
Christ. We have been “adopted” or “granted sonship” by our heavenly Father because he has chosen us in
Christ. This means that we have been granted membership into the divine family. With that membership
comes all of the privileges of rightful heirs. However, just as our adoption brings privileges, it also brings
responsibilities. As such, we must learn to share in his sufferings as well as in his glory. In fact, if we are
not willing to share in his sufferings, we will not share in his glory. In verse 18 Paul compared his present
suffering to his future reward in heaven and found there to be no comparison between the two. He looked
with eager anticipation to the day that he would be fully, and finally, redeemed to live with God in his new,
spiritual body.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Examine your spiritual life to see if you are placing privileges above responsibilities. Commit to an
area of service in the church and faithfully fulfill that position. Make life more about your Father
than it is about you. Kingdom Policy Number Ninety-Eight: As God’s children, Christians are to
accept family responsibilities as eagerly as they accept family privileges.
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10
Morning
KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Romans 8:24-34
Hope and Help
The word “hope” is found in these 11 verses 5 times! We know that we are saved “by faith” (Ephesians 2:8)
but salvation brings hope to the heart of every believer. Hope is an outgrowth of our salvation and a very
important part of our Christian service. Our hope is found in the help (v. 26) that God provides for us
through his Holy Spirit. Back in verse 23 we saw that believers sometimes “groan.” Now, in verse 26, we
read where the Holy Spirit “groans” for us. Verse 27 indicates that the Holy Spirit searches our hearts and
intercedes for us even when we cannot find the words to express our needs and desires in prayer. We find
help and hope in the promise that, “In all things God works for the good of those who love him” (v. 28).
We are told that God has predestined us to be conformed to the likeness of his Son. Here we learn that
“predestination” has much to do with our Christian service. God has provided every “help” that we need to
succeed in the Christian life and all of the “hope” that we need to be sustained along the way. Based on
this truth, Paul asks, “If God be for us, who can be against us?” If God would give his own Son for us, then
why would he later withhold from us anything that we need to live for him? Verse 34 reveals three
essential truths to our Christian success: 1) Christ died for us; 2) He is alive and seated at the position of
power (the right hand of God); and 3) He is interceding for us!
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Memorize Romans 8:28 and meditate on it daily! Ask the Holy Spirit to help you express your
deepest needs to God. Allow God’s Spirit and Word to give you hope as you live for him.
Kingdom Policy Number Ninety-Nine: God’s plan is for every believer to be like Jesus – and he
provides us all that we need to accomplish it.
Day
10
Evening
Evening Scripture: Romans 8:35 – 9:7
“More than Conquerors”
Paul asks five questions in Romans 8:32-35 and then provides the answers for each question. There is no
need for the believer to ever worry about what God is going to do. God wants all Christians to understand
that suffering does not separate us from Christ. In fact, he wants us to understand that suffering is
sometimes used as a tool to draw us even closer to him. Paul quotes Psalm 44:22 to show that God’s people
have always suffered for their faith. However, our suffering is in no way an indication that God is not with
us – helping us in every way! Paul reminds us that there is absolutely nothing that can take us outside the
reach of our loving God! Think about the things that we have read in Romans 8. Verse 1 reminded us that
there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ. Verse 12 reminded us that we have no obligation to
obey the flesh and its desires. And now verse 39 reminds us that there is no separation from Christ –
regardless of our circumstances!
Beginning in Chapter 9, Paul is going to teach some biblical lessons from Israel’s spiritual history. In
chapters 9, 10, and 11 he is going to talk about Israel’s past, present and future, respectively. In the first part
of chapter 9 he reviews many of the ways that Israel has been blessed by God. However, in verse 7 he
makes it clear that everyone, Jew and Gentile alike, must be born again to be a true child of God.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Refuse to worry when things get tough. Know that God is always with you. Kingdom Policy
Number One Hundred: Nothing separates us from God and his love!
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KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Romans 9:8-18
Day
11
Morning
“The Children of Promise”
The Jews were going to have to come to a sobering conclusion-being a physical descendant of Abraham was
not enough for salvation. To be included in those who were considered the “Children of Promise,” they
were going to have to be born again, spiritual descendants as well. To help his readers understand that
salvation was not based on good works, Paul was led to use the illustration of the children of Rebecca
(“Rebekah” in some translations). It was “before they were born” or “had done anything good or bad” that
God’s election was made. Therefore, we know that God did not base his choice on merit or good works.
The first words of verse 12 are very powerful: “Not by works, but by him who calls.” By this, we clearly see
that our relationship with God is not based on performance, but on a person!
When you read these verses carefully, you see that this “election” is not even about salvation, but service. It
was about Jacob being chosen over Esau as far as the continuation of the lineage was concerned. The word
“hated” does not imply that God did not love Esau. It is clear that Esau’s natural father loved him dearly –
and we can be assured that God loved him, too! The word translated “hate” in this verse is the same word
found in Luke 14:26:“If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children,
his brothers and sisters – yes, even his own life – he cannot be my disciple.” It is clear that the Lord was not
implying that we should literally hate those that are precious to him to prove that we love him. However,
he was implying that we have to make choices about priorities in relationships. The fact that God chose
Jacob over Esau in no way implies that God did not love Esau or that Esau, or his descendants, could not be
saved.
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Thank God for his call to salvation and to service! Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred-One:
Our call to salvation and service is based on mercy and not merit!
Day
11
Evening
Evening Scripture: Romans 9:19-29
A Good Question
Verse 19 begins another series of questions that Paul must have anticipated his readers would be asking.
The central question regarding God’s callings is found in verse 21, “Does not the potter have the right to
make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for noble purposes and some for common use?” A potter
might use the same pile of clay to make one vessel that was to be used in some decorative way (like a
beautiful vase) and some from the same pile to be used in some more practical way (like a water pot). So it
is with God’s callings for service and his divine purposes for different people. We are not to complain
about God’s sovereign choices! God had every right to choose Jacob over Esau – and we have no right to
question his choice.
Paul then quotes from Hosea and Isaiah to support his statement. He wanted his readers to understand
that God is a loving God who forgives and restores those who are not his people so that he, based on mercy
and not merit, can make them his own. The important point here is that God loves Jews and Gentiles alike
and that he calls whom he chooses and appoints them to whatever place of service he desires.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Refuse to question God and surrender your life to his authority. Serve him in whatever role he
chooses for you. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred-Two: Believers are to never question
God’s authority or sovereignty.
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Day
12
Morning
KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Romans 9:30 – 10:4
Israel’s Real Problem
Verse 30 begins with a question. Paul asks, “What then shall we say?” It is interesting to note that this is
the fifth time (see 4:1; 6:1; 8:31; 9:14) that he introduced a new topic of discussion with this question. He
then spoke about the Gentiles obtaining righteousness by faith while the Jews were still seeking to find
righteousness through the keeping of the law. Israel’s real problem was that, if one was to obtain
righteousness by keeping the law, then they would have to keep it perfectly. They had “pursued it
(righteousness) not by faith but as if it were by works” (v. 32). Thus, the Cornerstone became a stumbling
block for Israel because the Jews rejected the gospel while the Gentiles responded to it by faith.
Paul explained the reason for Israel’s stumbling. It was because they were zealous for God, but their zeal
was not according to knowledge. I think that Paul could clearly understand their situation because he had
been such a zealot himself before he met the Lord on the way to Damascus. They sought to establish their
own righteousness by keeping the law and therein rejected the righteousness that can be found only in
Christ Jesus. It is obvious that Paul loved his fellow Jews and desired very much that they would accept the
gospel and be saved.
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Pray for the salvation of someone that you know. Seek an opportunity to share the gospel with
them. Let them know how much you care about them. Be considerate of others. Seek to be a good
witness in all things and at all times. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred-Three: No one, no
matter how zealous they are, can obtain righteous through the keeping of the Law.
Day
12
Evening
Evening Scripture: Romans 10:5-15
“Righteous – By Faith”
Righteousness that was obtained by keeping the Law would be a result of human achievement and not by
God’s grace. If one had to keep the Law perfectly to obtain righteous, then he could never know with any
certainty that he was saved because he could not know how he might react to temptation at some future
time. Paul’s quoting of Deuteronomy 30:14 (v.8) is an indicator that Moses never taught that a man was
saved by the keeping of the Law. The purpose of the Law was to reveal man’s need for salvation-not to
provide it. The words found in Romans 10:6-8 are based on what is found in Deuteronomy 30:12-14.
Blessings were promised to those who were obedient to God while chastisement was promised to those
who were disobedient. The same is true with the gospel. One either obeys God’s call to repentance and is
blessed with salvation or disobeys God by rejecting the gospel. The latter decision would lead to
damnation that could be blamed on no one but the individual.
Salvation involves an inward belief (“with your heart”) and an outward confession (“with your mouth”).
There was to be no distinction made between Jew and Gentile. If the Jews were going to be saved, then
they were going to have to reject their self-made pursuit of righteousness and accept God’s one way of
salvation. All they had to do was to call on the name of the Lord and be saved.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Thank God for allowing you to clearly see his plan of salvation. Recognize that it is only by God’s
divine grace that you have come to know Jesus and all of his wonderful blessings. Kingdom
Policy Number One Hundred-Four: There is only one way to salvation for Jew and Gentile alike.
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KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Romans 10:16 – 11:6
Day
13
Morning
No Excuses!
We know that some Jews believed the gospel and accepted Jesus as Savior. When Romans 10:16 states, “But
not all the Jews accepted the good news” it is saying that Israel, as a nation, rejected Jesus and denied that
he was who he claimed to be. But why was that the case? What excuse could they possibly offer the Lord
when they would have to stand before him? Could they say that they had not heard? No! Paul quotes
Psalm 19:4 to refute that reasoning. Could they claim that they did not understand? No again! Paul quotes
from Moses (Deuteronomy 32:21) and Isaiah 65:1 to disallow that excuse. Paul then quoted Isaiah 65:2 to
prove that God had reached out to Israel only to find them to be a disobedient people who would not come
to him on his terms.
Paul then asks, “Did God reject his people?” The answer was, “By no means!” It was Israel that rejected
God. However, there would prove to be a remnant that would be faithful to believe that the only way to
God was on his terms – that being, by grace and grace alone!
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Review your various excuses for not being fully committed to God and then try to explain them to
him in light of the cross. Move from the realm of “thinking about it” and get busy doing the things
that God wants you to do! Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred-Five: There is no good excuse
for the lost to not be saved or for the saved to not be serving.
Day
13
Evening
Evening Scripture: Romans 11:7-18
A Very Long Time!
Paul believed in giving credit where credit was due. He spoke of the “earnestness” (NIV) with which Israel
had gone about pursuing a performance-based righteousness before God. For many, the sad condition
could not be attributed to a lack of trying! In verse 8, Paul quotes from Isaiah 29:10 and says that Israel was
in a state of “slumber” (KJV) or in a spiritual “stupor” (NIV). He then adds this comment to that quotation:
“To this very day!”
The first 30 chapters of Isaiah were written somewhere around 701 BC and Paul wrote this letter to the
Romans somewhere around 57 AD. So, for at least a period of almost 800 years, Israel had been banging
their heads against the hard wall of the Law while trying to earn their own way to God! That, my friends, is
a very long time! But it is not time enough to extend beyond the reach of God’s grace! Look at the
question in the first part of verse 11 of the NIV, “Did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery?” Now look
at the Holy Spirit’s immediate answer, “Not at all!” Israel’s “fall” (KJV) or “transgression” (NIV) mentioned
in the later part of that verse is in reference to their rejection of the gospel. To reject Christ and the pardon
that was purchased by his death, burial and resurrection is the one, and only, unpardonable sin.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Review your life and recognize that time is passing swiftly. Consider all of the things that you
have been thinking, talking and praying about doing for God on that magical “Someday.”
Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred-Six: God never gives up on his people so it is never too
late to surrender to his will!
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Day
14
Morning
KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Romans 11:19-31
“Branches” & “Shoots”
How “supernatural” is our salvation? In the last part of yesterday’s verses, and the first part of this
morning’s scriptures, Paul uses the illustration of the olive tree to help us understand just how thankful we
should be that we are saved and that we have been made a part of God’s glorious kingdom. The olive tree
is used to represent God and his holy Word. The natural “branches” (v. 17) represent Israel, the people to
whom God’s Word was first given and with whom God first entered into covenant relationship. The “wild
olive tree” (KJV) or “shoot” (also v. 17) represents the Gentiles. A very important phrase is found in verse
24, that being, “contrary to nature.” The “natural” way of looking at a “shoot” or “wild branch” was to see it
as something that needed to be removed so that the tree would not have to compete with it for
nourishment. When the “natural” branches (Israel) refused to fulfill their covenant relationship with God
the “wild” branches, or “shoots” were grafted in and made a part of the tree.
However, this grafting was not because of our merit, but because of Israel’s unbelief. So, there was to be no
“boasting” on the part of the Gentiles. Even though Israel refused to keep its covenant promises, God never
failed from his end. His promises are said to be “without repentance” (KJV) or “irrevocable” (NIV). As a
result of his faithfulness, Israel will ultimately be saved (v. 26).
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Day
14
Evening
Consider how much God loves you! Thank him for the fact that you have been made a part of his
family. Pray for Israel today and for the salvation of someone that you know. Kingdom Policy
Number One Hundred-Seven: Being “born again” means that we are God’s children and heirs to all
of his promises.
Evening Scripture: Romans 11:32 – 12:5
“Amen!”
The thought of God’s love for all people, Jew and Gentile alike, caused Paul to begin to praise the Lord for
his mercy and goodness. The riches of his wisdom and knowledge are said to be “unsearchable.” By that,
Paul is simply saying that there is no “bottom” or “end” to the love and mercy of God! The last verse of
chapter 11 is a key to understanding what we are going to learn in chapter 12. All things are “of” him and
“through” him, so every life should be committed “to” him! All things should be for God’s glory!
Chapter 12 begins a practical application as to how every saved person can contribute to the glory that is
due God. We should be willing to present ourselves to God as living sacrifices. Just like the ceremonial
offerings of old, the presenting of our lives to God is a form of “service” (KJV) or an “act of worship” (NIV).
As God’s born again children, our lives should not conform to the pattern of this world. In other words, it
is time to discontinue to follow natural patterns or paths, but to be transformed by allowing God to change
the way that we think. We are not to think of ourselves as some “afterthought” or “second choice” that God
made after Israel’s rejection of the gospel. We are to see ourselves as God’s children and just as much a
part of his great plan as Israel. To help us to better understand how God’s love has allowed us to become
his own children, the image of a “tree” is discontinued and God begins to use the image of a “body” to allow
us to see that he has a role and purpose for all believers – Jew and Gentile alike!
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Read God’s Word faithfully and, as you read, ask him to change the way you think and to give you a
new mind that is compatible to your new life! Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred-Eight: We
can only change the way we live by allowing God to change the way that we think.
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KINGDOM POLICIES
Day
15
Morning
Morning Scripture: Romans 12:6-16
Gifts
Applying what he had just said about all believers being a part of God’s body, Paul reveals how we are to
“offer” ourselves to God as living sacrifices. Every Christian is to use their God-given abilities (spiritual
gifts) in spiritual service to Christ and his church. We are to serve the Lord by serving one another. This
service should be motivated by love, which will cause us to think more about the needs of others and less
about ourselves.
Verse 11 clearly teaches us that when we are serving one another, we are actually serving the Lord! When
we serve the Lord, our lives are filled with rejoicing, patience, consistency (v. 12). We will also exhibit
generosity and hospitality towards others (v. 13). And, we will be empowered to live out our Lord’s
command (Matthew 5:44) to love and be a blessing to even our enemies (v.14). But that is not all. By
serving one another we learn how to relate to people in all situations and better understand how to meet
their needs (v. 15). And, perhaps best of all, we become of “the same mind” (KJV) or “live in harmony”
(NIV) with one another.
Every believer doing his part – every part serving God – and all things being done for his glory! Now that is
a “gift” in itself!
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Value the ministries of others. Express appreciation to someone who serves in a different ministry
than yours today. Pray for all of our church volunteers and workers on a regular basis. Kingdom
Policy Number One Hundred-Nine: God is glorified when his people serve one another
because they love one another.
Day
15
Evening
Evening Scripture: Romans 12:17 – 13:8
“If It Be Possible”
The verses that we read this morning dealt with the way that believers are to lovingly serve one another
while the verses that we have read tonight deal with the way that believers are to relate to unbelievers. We
are not to repay “anyone” evil when we are treated in an evil way. We are to “provide things honest” (KJV)
or “do what is right” (NIV) in our dealings with everybody – believer or unbeliever. If there is any way that
we can possibly do so, we are to live at peace with all people. This means the saved and unsaved alike. But
it goes even farther than that. As the Scripture states, we are to feed our enemies when they are hungry
and given them something to drink when they are thirsty. In other words, we are to leave such things as
judgment and revenge to God. When we do this, we will learn the great truth that is found in Romans 12:21
and we will accomplish great things for God.
As Christians we are to be good citizens and respect the laws of the land (13:1-7). The only debt that we
should owe to anyone is to love them in the way that God has commanded. God certainly seems to indicate
that this is all very possible.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Live out the Golden Rule on a daily basis. Treat others as you would want to be treated.
Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred-Ten: Believers are to exhibit love to all people and not
just their fellow Christians.
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Day
16
Morning
KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Romans 13:9 – 14:4
The Importance of Showing Love
Paul continued his discourse on the role that believers are to play within society by stating that there is a
lot of Bible preaching done when Christians love their neighbor and treat them the way that they should be
treated. There is a whole lot of John 3:16 to be found in being kind to those who are experiencing difficult
situations in life. You cannot help but notice that Paul quoted three of the “Do Not” commandments in
this illustration. Then moved on to what love “does” and “is” (v. 10). Verses 11-14 help us to understand that
the soon (and certain) coming of the end of this age should serve to motivate us to get around to all of
those “good” things that we have been thinking about doing. The brevity of life is understood in the usage
of the words “night” and “day” (v.12). The kind of love that motivates us to do good to others is the kind of
love that will help us to overcome the desire to live and act in ways that are displeasing to God and to live
in ways that are pleasing to the Lord Jesus.
Accordingly, the first verses in chapter 14 serve to remind us that we are not to judge others in matters of
diet and other observances of the ceremonial laws. Such “disputable matters” (Romans 14:1, NIV) are not
reason enough to become judgmental or to break fellowship with other believers.
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Do something good for someone today. Express God’s love to someone by rendering an act of
kindness. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred-Eleven: Believers preach the gospel by what
they do and not just by what they say.
Day
16
Evening
Evening Scripture: Romans 14:5-17
Differing Opinions
This morning we read a warning in regard to being judgmental towards those who held differing opinions
regarding ceremonial, dietary laws. Tonight we read about those who hold differing opinions on the
Sabbath or Holy Days. A key to understanding these verses is found in the last part of verse 5: “Each one
should be fully convinced in his own mind.” Which position a person took on what day to worship did not
seem to matter to Paul. If they believed that they should worship on the Sabbath and on the Holy Days,
then let them do it. You would not have to follow him around for too long before learning that he, like the
apostles and early church in Acts, worshipped God “daily.” So, it seems that Paul was of the opinion that
you couldn’t pick a wrong day to worship and serve God! All days are to be dedicated to God and should be
filled with service to him.
When we begin to judge others, we should allow the Holy Spirit to remind us that, “Every knee will bow
before me” (God) and that “every tongue will confess to God.” God is the one to whom every person will
ultimately answer. Be assured that, “Each of us will give an account of himself to God.” This fact alone
should be enough to convince us that we should cease from passing judgment on one another.
On the other hand, if some unnecessary action on our part is particularly offensive to others, we should be
willing to forego any action that might cause other Christians (especially new believers) to stumble.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Draw an imaginary circle on the floor and kneel down in it. Ask God to deal with the person in the
circle and leave the judging of others to him alone. Kingdom Policy Number One HundredTwelve: Pay attention to your own actions and trust God to pay attention to the actions of others.
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KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Romans 14:18 – 15:6
Day
17
Morning
“Make Every Effort”
As believers, it should be our consuming desire to do what leads to peaceful relationships with our fellow
Christians and to live in ways that result in other believers being strengthened. The fellowship of God’s
people should not be disrupted because of differing opinions on what foods should be eaten or avoided.
There is much freedom for the believer in these matters, but much responsibility accompanies that
freedom. It is better for stronger believers to forfeit some of their “freedom” if doing so will prevent
younger, or weaker, believers from stumbling. If you have questions in your own heart about something,
then it is best to avoid the questionable thing or activity altogether.
Strong Christians know how to put the needs of others before their own. Each of us should be constantly
considering the needs of our “neighbor” (whether saved or not) and taking care to live in ways that will be a
positive witness of our faith in Christ.
Memorize the first part of Romans 15:3:“For even Christ did not please himself.” When we begin to live
unselfishly, we begin to “follow Christ Jesus” (v. 5) and to “glorify God” (v. 6).
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Resist the temptation to make life more about you than others. Defeat that seed of selfishness
that draws you toward thinking about you and what you want or need. Focus on the needs of
others and trust your needs to God. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred-Thirteen: We are
never being more like Christ than when we are putting others first.
Day
17
Evening
Evening Scripture: Romans 15:7-19
A Big Challenge
When we “receive” (KJV) or “accept” (NIV) one another we are to do so in the same way that Christ has
accepted us. When we obey this command we bring glory to God. For some it may be difficult to refer to
Christ as a “servant,” but that is the very word that he often used to describe himself. Like Christ, Paul
made himself a servant to Jews and Gentiles alike. He used several quotations from the Old Testament to
prove that God’s redemption plan had included all peoples from all races and nationalities from the very
beginning. When we learn to love all people – and to allow God to love them through us – then, “The God
of hope (will) fill us with all joy and peace as we trust in him” and we will soon “overflow with hope by the
power of the Holy Spirit” (v. 13).
Paul considered it an honor to preach the gospel to the Gentiles and to teach them truths from God’s Word
that would empower them to be the kind of “living sacrifices” or “offerings” that he had encouraged them
to become back in chapter 12. When people live in accordance with the Word of God and the leadership of
the Holy Spirit of God, then the life that they offer for God becomes “acceptable” to him and God can
accomplish great things through them. Paul never forgot that it was, “through the power of the Holy
Spirit” (v. 19) that what he had “said and done” (v. 18) had led to the saving of many souls.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Consider the way that Christ has loved you and then treat others accordingly. Be strong enough to
make yourself a servant to others. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred-Fourteen: We are
never more like Christ Jesus than when we are serving others.
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Day
18
Morning
KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Romans 15:20-33
A Noble “Ambition”
Paul stated that he had “strived” (KJV) or that it was his “ambition” (NIV) to carry the gospel to places and
people that had previously been outside of its reach. Even though he often quoted from Isaiah, Moses, and
Jeremiah, it seems as if Paul had adopted the last part of Isaiah 52:15 as his life verse. It became his personal
“Mission Statement.” He stated that his desire to carry the gospel to unreached peoples had often hindered
him from spending as much time as he might have desired with the established churches and his fellow
believers.
When you read verse 23, you have to stand in awe of the statement, “There is no more place” where he had
not carried the gospel. This does not imply that everyone alive at Paul’s time had heard him preach, but it
does imply that he had fulfilled his personal mission statement of carrying the gospel to every Gentile
nation within his reach.
What was Paul going to do with his “spare time?” He was already on his way to Jerusalem to deliver a
contribution that the Christians in Macedonia and Achai and collected for the church there. No wonder he
asked them to pray for him!
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Review your own personal, spiritual ambitions. Set a goal to witness to someone for Christ in the
very near future and prepare yourself for that task. Kingdom Policy Number One HundredFifteen: Christians should be ambitious in the desire to reach people for Christ.
Day
18
Evening
Evening Scripture: Romans 16:1-15
Personal Greetings
As you read the closing verses in Romans, notice how well Paul seemed to know the many people that are
mentioned in this closing letter. When I read these verses I can only conclude that Paul, like Jesus, knew
his sheep by name and had a personal concern for each and every one of them.
Some believe that Phoebe was probably the person who delivered Paul’s letter to the Christians at Rome.
She was a servant in the church of a smaller city that was located just outside of Corinth. Aquila and
Priscilla were “fellow workers” in more ways than one. They were in the tent making business with Paul
and they had apparently joined him in the business of preaching the gospel around the world.
Read down through verse 15 and note again the personal information that Paul shares about each one of
these people. He knew them – their ministries – and he knew their families as well. As you read these
expressions of love and appreciation, you can imagine that all of these people represented the many people
with whom the road weary apostle would have loved to have spent more time. But there would be time for
friends and fellowship when life was over and heaven was his home. After so many years of traveling from
church to church, I am so blessed to now have the opportunity to have a home church and many friends.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Thank God for your fellow church members tonight. Make time to contact someone and express
your love and appreciation to them. Take time to get to know people. Kingdom Policy Number
One Hundred-Sixteen: You can find the time to get to know your fellow believers!
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KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Romans 16:16-27
Day
19
Morning
Closing Words
You can sense the urgency in Paul’s words as he urges the Christians at Rome to watch out for those who
desired to cause division in the church by teaching things that were contrary to what they had learned from
him and other teachers. His warning was both simple and succinct: “Keep away from them!” It was his
opinion that people that caused division in the church did so for selfish reasons. “Smooth talk” and
“flattery” were some of the tools that they used to draw people to their way of thinking. We would be
unwise to think that this does not go on in God’s churches today. People have not changed. Personal
ambitions lead to personal agendas, and personal agendas lead to “politics” in the church. Paul simple
encouraged them to be “wise” about what was good and to do the right things toward one another. When
Christians selfishly serve the Lord, and one another, Satan is ultimately defeated and crushed! How is this
possible? Read again the words of verses 25-27 and be reminded that we serve a God “Who is able” to do all
things. Unto him, “The only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen.”
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

When it comes to church unity, commit to always being a part of the solution and to never being a
part of the problem. Make maintaining church unity a personal goal. Refuse to become used to
promote any person’s personal agenda in the church. Kingdom Policy Number One HundredSeventeen: You cannot spell division without getting a lot of “I’s” involved in it!
Day
19
Evening
Evening Scripture: Galatians 1:1-10
No Other Gospel
It has always been difficult for me to understand how so many churches can read from the same Bible and
seek to serve the same Lord, yet be so very different. Such is the case when we move from Romans to
Galatians. In Romans we read where Paul had asked the Christians there to be tolerant with others that
still wanted to celebrate the ceremonial Holy Days and dietary laws of the Old Testament. In Galatians we
find a group who were so adamant about such things that they did not believe that you were truly saved if
you did not observe certain ceremonial laws. They believed that some of the Old Testament ceremonies
were still for the New Testament Church and they were insisting that the new Gentile converts submit to
such traditi0ns – including circumcision.
In verse 6, Paul said, “I marvel,” (KJV) or “I am astonished,” (NIV) that you are so quick to accept “another”
(KJV) or a “different” (NIV) gospel. There are two Greek words translated “another” or “different” in the
New Testament. One means “another of the same kind” and one means “another of a different kind.” The
word used here, in the original, is that “different kind” word – and that is not a good thing. The
“difference” here is that the Jews in Galatia wanted to add something to the gospel (works) and that made it
a different story altogether. Verse 7 tells it all! This “different” gospel was marked by “trouble” (KJV) or
“confusion” (NIV) and Paul considered it to be a “perversion” of the real thing! In our day of so many
“versions” of the Bible, we must be careful to avoid any “perversion” from creeping in to our churches.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Take a moment and circle the word “gospel” whenever you find it in these few chapters. You are
going to find that this book is very much about the gospel and that the word “gospel” is the key
word to the entire book. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred-Eighteen: Believers are to be
committed to making preaching of the gospel the main business of the church.
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Day
20
Morning
KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Galatians 1:11-24
Paul’s Defense
Paul began to defend the gospel that he had preached was the “real version” and not a “perversion.” He
stated that it was not “after man” (KJV) or that it was “not something that man made up.” The insinuation
here is that the gospel, plus anything, is something that man “made up” (literally imagined) and that it is
different than the gospel that Christ preached and commanded men like Paul to continue preaching.
Paul’s defense for the gospel that he preached can be divided into three sections: 1) He had received his
gospel from Christ (vs. 11-14); 2) He had not simply heard the gospel from the apostles and began to preach
his own “version” of it (vs. 15-17); 3) The gospel that he preached had been readily accepted by the apostles
and in other churches (vs. 18-24).
It is important to remember that the early church did not immediately accept Paul after his conversion. In
fact, Paul went into Arabia (v. 17) for some time after his conversion. So, just as men like Moses, Elijah, and
John the Baptist, Paul spent some time alone with God (“three years” – v. 18) in the “desert” before he began
to share the refreshing, life-changing water of the gospel with others.
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Accept the gospel as it is. Do not allow church traditions to become more important than reaching
the lost. Never mix works with grace – to do so will only result in a disgrace to what Christ has
done for us. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred-Nineteen: Believers are to avoid any
“version” of the Bible that is a “perversion” of the gospel.
Day
20
Evening
Evening Scripture: Galatians 2:1-10
“The Truth of the Gospel”
Galatians 2:5 is a key verse in tonight’s reading, and the phrase, “the truth of the gospel” is a key theme
throughout this important book. The word that is translated “truth” in this verse is first found in Matthew
22:16 where even the Lord’s enemies had to admit that he was “true” (translated “a man of integrity” in the
NIV) and that he taught the way of God “in truth” (KJV) or “in accordance with the truth” (NIV). This
important word comes from a Greek word that means, “the real truth” or “the essence of reality.” When the
Pharisees stated that the Lord was “true,” the root word from which we get the word “truth” was used. So,
the “truth” came from the “true” One – Jesus Christ. And that is exactly where Paul states that he received
his gospel, or “truth,” that he was preaching and teaching.
In verse 6, Paul declared that his eventual meeting with the 12 apostles did not cause him to add one thing
to what he had learned directly from the Lord. This is really a positive statement about the apostles. Since
their gospel was not different from what Paul had learned from Jesus, that meant that these men were still
preaching only what they had heard from him as well. It is important to note that the words
“uncircumcision” and “circumcision” (v. 7) are translated “Gentiles” and “Jews” in some translations. The
“gospel of uncircumcision” or “circumcision” does not refer to different gospels but to different people.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Surrender your life to the One who is “true” and you will be a witness of the “truth.” Respect the
opinions of others, but know that the gospel is not subject to any man’s opinion. Kingdom Policy
Number One Hundred-Twenty: Believers should respect tradition, but at the same time, they
must reject any tradition that begins to take precedent over one, true gospel.
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Morning Scripture: Galatians 2:11-21
Day
21
Morning
Peter and Paul
I often see people almost cringe when I say that I am not sure that Peter and Paul really liked each other.
However, I want to go on record as saying that I definitely believe that they loved and respected each other.
There is a big difference between “liking” and “loving” – and you know it. Look again at Galatians 2:11 and
notice where Paul said that, when Peter came to Antioch he “withstood” (KJV) or “opposed” (NIV) because
he was “to be blamed” (KJV) or “in the wrong” (NIV). The issue was over the fact that Peter had come to
Antioch and had readily associated and fellowshipped with the Gentile believers there and had even had his
meals with them. However, when a delegation of believers from the Jerusalem church arrived, Peter began
to “draw back” (NIV) and to “separate himself” (NIV) from the Gentiles. It was Paul’s opinion that Peter
did so because he was more concerned about what the Jews thought than what Jesus taught! The other
Jews then followed Peter’s lead, and even Barnabas became joined them! What follows (vs. 14-21) is a clear
explanation as to why grace is to be preferred over Law. Law led only to guilt, shame, and death while
grace led to forgiveness, glory and life!
It is important to note that neither Acts nor Galatians records any response from Peter to Paul’s charges.
One can only imagine that these personal charges led to some powerful changes in the way that the Jewish
believers thought and the way that they treated the Gentile believers.
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Love and respect your fellow believers, but refuse to become involved in any group that believes
that they are better than others. Express your love and appreciation to a fellow church member
that is not in your immediate circle. If possible, make room for them in your own circle of friends.
Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Twenty-One: All Christians are of one family and they
should show love and respect one for another.
Day
21
Evening
Evening Scripture: Galatians 3:1-10
Doctrinal Issues
The first two chapters (1-2) of Galatians are about some personal issues while the following two chapters (34) are about doctrinal issues. Those who wanted to add the keeping of ceremonial law to the gospel of
grace were accused of having “bewitched” (3:1) the Christians at Galatia. This is the only place that this
Greek word is found in the New Testament and it means “to charm” or “to entrance.” The “gospel plus law”
theory obviously seemed to make sense to both those who preached it and those who heard it. It still
sounds right to many people today. However, a “different” gospel may sound or seem right and yet still be
very wrong! You will read the word “foolish” twice in tonight’s verses. It comes from a word that was used
only once in the gospels. This word is used in Luke 24:25 when quoting some of the things that Christ said
to the two disciples with whom he walked on the road to Emmaus after his resurrection. The Lord had told
these disheartened believers that they were “foolish” not to believe “all that the prophets had spoken”
(NIV). Doctrine can only be based on the Bible! Anything less than that is more doctored than it is
doctrine!
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Reread tonight’s verses and circle the words “believe,” “believed,” or “faith.” Note that even the
Old Testament saints (Abraham) were saved by faith and not by keeping the law. Underscore the
line that states that the gospel was preached to Abraham! Kingdom Policy Number One
Hundred Twenty-Two: There has always been only one, true gospel!
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KINGDOM POLICIES
Day
22
Morning
Morning Scripture: Galatians 3:11-18
“The Promise”
Take a moment and circle or underscore the word “promise” every time you find it in Galatians 3. Other
than in Hebrews, this word is found more often in Galatians than any book of the New Testament. To
understand this promise, we have to understand who made the promise and to whom it was made. These
verses refer back to Genesis 17:19 when God promised Abraham that he would give him a son in his old age
(Isaac) and that from his “seed” (KJV) or “descendants” (NIV) an “everlasting covenant” would be made.
The word “seed” is singular because it is speaking of one person (Christ Jesus) and not of many people (the
Jewish nation). God made a formal agreement with Abraham, 430 years before the Law was ever given, that
promised a “seed” would be the source for his salvation. When the Law was introduced those many years
later, it was not introduced as replacement, or even just an addition or improvement to the covenant that
God had already made with Abraham. Long before the Law was ever given, God was saving people by his
grace. He has never saved anyone by anything other than grace – and he never will!
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Pray for all who preach the gospel. Ask God to keep them true to the message of grace. Realize
that the message of grace began with God and that no man has the authority to change that
message. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Twenty-Three: God wants to use us to preach
the same gospel that he preached to Abraham – that being, a gospel of salvation by grace alone.
Day
22
Evening
Evening Scripture: Galatians 3:19-29
The Purpose of the Law
When Paul anticipated questions from his readers, he would often just go ahead and ask it for them! Such
is the case in verse 19. Paul asks, “What, then, is the purpose of the law?” He goes on to answer his own
question in three different statements. First, Paul stated that the law was temporary while grace was
everlasting (see “everlasting covenant” in Genesis 17:19). The law was given to draw attention to sin and the
need for salvation until the promised “Seed” (Christ) could come and draw attention to salvation and the
name (Jesus) by which all men must be saved (vs. 19-20)!
Second, the law could only bring conviction and not conversion (vs. 21-22). If it had been possible for even
one person to be saved by the keeping of the law, then it might have been possible for others. If so, God
could have spared his Son from the death on the cross. The law was not “against” (KJV) or “opposed” (NIV)
God’s promises. It was designed to be a tool to remind men of their need for the promised Seed that would
come and fulfill the law completely.
Last, Paul taught that the law prepared the way for Christ (vs. 23-29). Verse 24 clearly states that the law
was “our schoolmaster” (KJV) or “put in charge” (NIV) to lead or bring us to Christ. But “after” (KJV) or
“Now” (NIV) that faith has come we “are no longer under the supervision of the law” (v. 25). Those who
have believed on Jesus, and his gospel of the death, burial and resurrection, are no longer Jews or Gentiles,
but heirs of Abraham – not according to their own works or the keeping of any civil or ceremonial laws, but
“according to the promise” (v. 29).
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Thank God that our salvation is based on God’s promise and not our performance! Spend some
time praising God for that blessing! Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Twenty-Four: The
Law was used by God to reveal our sin and need for the Savior that was promised many years prior to
Moses or the Law.
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KINGDOM POLICIES
Day
23
Morning
Morning Scripture: Galatians 4:1-11
“The Adoption of Sons”
Paul is not through with his argument regarding salvation by grace and grace alone. Find either the phrase
“the adoption of sons” (KJV) or “the full rights of sons” (NIV) and underscore it in your Bible! This is a very
important verse and all believers who come to understand it will be blessed beyond belief! What Paul
wants his readers to understand is that God, in his infinite mercy, takes all who believe the promise of
salvation through his Son into his own family and gives them the full rights and privileges of his only
begotten Son, Jesus! God gives us a “key to the house” when we are saved and “full privileges” to all that is
contained therein. We are to remember that we are “sons” and not mere “servants” (v. 7). By that, we
understand that we serve God because he is our Father. God’s indwelling Spirit teaches us to call out to
God in the words, “Abba, Father.” The word “Abba” is the Aramaic word for Father. So, Jews and Gentiles
alike have the same Father because they were born to him in the same way. Jews were not saved by the law
while Gentiles were saved by grace. All who were saved were saved by grace and given the right to call God
by the same name that Jesus prayed to him in Mark 14:36! Why would anyone want to trade sonship for
servitude?
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Cry out “Abba, Father” tonight and realize that you are now just as much God’s child as the One
conceived to him through Mary. Celebrate your new birth just like you would the birth of Christ!
Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Twenty-Five: For the believer, every day is Christmas!
Evening Scripture: Galatians 4:12-24
Day
23
Evening
“What Happened to Your Joy?”
It is obvious that there had been a change in the people’s attitude towards Paul and in their appreciation for
Paul. He said that they had earlier “received” (KJV) or “welcomed” (NIV) him and had treated him with
great respect. The “infirmity” (KJV) or “illness” (NIV) that Paul referred seems to have something to do
with his vision. Their love for him had been made evident in the way that it seemed that, if possible, they
would have sacrificed their own eyes in order that his sight might be fully restored. But, now Paul has to
ask, “Where is then the blessedness” (KJV) or, in the NIV, “What has happened to your joy?” Paul feared
that his faithfulness to the “grace alone gospel” might have cost him some very dear friends (v. 16).
Paul then tells a story of two sons. One was a slave and the other was free. These two sons were used as a
means to help these Christians to understand the two covenants. The son that was free was free because of
a promise. The Holy Spirit makes it very clear to all who believe that we are not born of the “slave woman”
(the Law) so we are no longer in bondage to the Law. It is hard to imagine anyone being willing to trade
the joy that comes from being freely forgiven by God’s grace for the burden that comes with trying to earn
your own salvation by good works!
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Beware of teachers that do nothing but criticize and condemn others. Realize that we do not
elevate ourselves by putting others down. However, we must refuse to listen to those who teach
salvation by any means but grace. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Twenty-Six: There is
no joy or blessedness to be found in a performance-based salvation!
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Day
24
Morning
KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Galatians 4:25 – 5:3
Two “Jerusalems”
Just after speaking about “two covenants” in verse 24, Paul mentions two “Jerusalems” in verses 25-26. Paul
spoke of the Jerusalem “which now is” (KJV) or in “the present” (NIV) first. The one that “now is” relates to
Mount Sinai, Hagar, and slavery to the law. The figure of Jerusalem is used here because, at that time,
Jerusalem represented the center of Judaism, which was still under bondage to the law. Then Paul spoke of
the Jerusalem which is “above.” This refers to the state of the New Jerusalem that would be the heavenly
city of God. In that city, Christ would reign as the eternal king and Christians would be his citizens.
In verse 28, Paul again compares believers to Isaac, the child of promise (see 3:29). This means that we are
God’s children now – according to his promise! But, even this wonderful promise does not exempt us from
trials or persecution. Just as Ishmael persecuted Isaac (see Genesis 21:9) the children of this world will
persecute God’s children today.
The “liberty” (KJV) or “freedom” (NIV) that is referenced in 5:1 is the freedom from the yoke of the law. We
are no longer “entangled” (KJV) or “burdened” (NIV) by this heavy yoke or responsibility. Paul states that
those who accept circumcision on a “grace plus” basis will have to take every other part of the law with it.
Verse 3 states that the person who adds any part of the law to grace must add every part of the law to grace.
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Day
24
Evening
Expect trials and persecution. Refuse to be caught off guard when such events occur. Praise God
that your life is a strong enough witness for the Lord that the enemy would try to hinder you.
Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Twenty-Seven: If we add one part of the law to grace, we
must be willing to add it all.
Evening Scripture: Galatians 5:4-15
“Fallen From Grace”
I cannot tell you how many times I heard the term “fallen from grace” after I became a Christian. Some
have interpreted this to me that a person can lose their salvation and, literally, fall out of the grace of God.
It is important to note that Paul is not writing to people who have lost their salvation – or he would not
continually be calling them “brothers.” He is writing to people who are saved by grace but beginning to
dabble again in matters of the law. The law has everything to do with man trying to climb up to God while
grace has everything to do with God coming down to man. One is about man doing something for God
while the other is about God doing something for man.
The Christians at Galatia had been running a good race, but the false teachers had been adding just a little
bit or “yeast” (works) to the teaching about grace. It might not have seemed like much, but just one touch
of works contaminated grace entirely. To “fall from grace” meant that they had fallen away from the
teaching that had been delivered to them and not that they had fallen from salvation. Such false teaching
created “trouble” (KJV) or “confusion” (NIV). Paul assured those who were guilty of such false teaching
would pay a high penalty for doing so.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Remember that sin cannot undo what grace has done! Once saved – always saved! Since we could
never do anything “good enough” to be saved, we can never do anything “bad enough” to be
unsaved. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Twenty-Eight: What Christ has done for us
equals salvation. What we do for him equals service.
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KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Galatians 5:16-26
Day
25
Morning
The Spirit & The Flesh
If we “walk in the Spirit” (KJV) or “live by the Spirit” (NIV) we will not follow after the lusts or desires of the
“flesh” (KJV) or the “sinful nature” (NIV). In the KJV, the words “Spirit” and “flesh” are found 10 times each
in chapters 5 and 6. To “walk” or “live” in the Spirit means to have our lives under the Spirit’s control. The
“flesh” refers to the fallen nature that is still with us. As long as we live in this body, we will have to strive
to keep it under submission to God’s Spirit and Word. It will be a life-long struggle for all of us.
Verses 19-21 speak of the “works of the flesh” (KJV) or the “acts of the sinful nature” (NIV) while verses 2223 speak of the fruit of the Spirit. There is a big difference between works and fruit. Works are a product of
man’s energy while fruit is a product energized by the indwelling Holy Spirit.
Christian character comes from within – by the power of the Holy Spirit. The word used here is “fruit” and
not “fruits.” The person who is living and walking under the control of the Holy Spirit will exhibit all nine
of these character traits as one, single “fruit” that is evident to all. How could we possibly hide the evil
things that the flesh produces? It would not be possible. In the same way, how could we possibly hide the
fruit of the Spirit? If the Spirit of God lives in us, it will be obvious in the things that come out of us!
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Decide now to surrender your life to the control of the Holy Spirit. Be faithful in your Bible
reading and prayer time. Ask God to make an obvious difference in your life! Kingdom Policy
Number One Hundred Twenty-Nine: When it comes to the flesh or the Spirit, the victor will be the
one for whom you cast the deciding vote.
Day
25
Evening
Evening Scripture: Galatians 6:1-10
It’s About Others!
If we are walking or living in the Spirit, we will not use our liberty in Christ for selfish purposes. Jesus lived
for others and we are to follow his example. We are family, and family is always there for one another.
There are two ways that we are to help one another. First, we are to provide spiritual help to one another.
Paul spoke of a brother who was overtaken by sin. Should our attitude be one of judgment and
condemnation? Not at all! If we are spiritual, it should be our heart’s desire to restore that fallen friend in
a gentle and loving way. The word “restore” is a medical term used for the setting of a broken bone. We
should consider how we would want someone to treat us if we were in the troubled person’s situation and
then treat them accordingly.
We are also to help one another in material ways. The person who is blessed by the teaching of the Word
will be willing to share material things with others. We often apply these verses to reaping bad things when
we commit sinful acts, but, in context, these verses are talking about providing the material needs of those
who forsake their careers to make sure that the spiritual needs of the church are met. This is the work of
which we are never to grow weary and the one from which we will reap a great harvest if we are faithful.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Take your mind off of yourself and pay attention to the needs of others. Share some of what God
has so graciously given to you with someone in need. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred
Thirty: We can learn how spiritual we are by how spiritually we act when someone is in need.
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Day
26
Morning
KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Galatians 6:11-18
“Large Letters”
Paul usually had someone help him with writing his letters and then sometimes add a personal note at the
end. Because of the comment about writing with his “own hand” (v. 11), some think that Paul wrote this
letter himself. A quick review of the first verse of the letter reveals that Paul does not mention the letter
being from anyone else or acknowledge anyone’s assistance in the writing. The words “large letters” do not
refer to the length of the document but to the size of the individual letters that made up the words. It is
generally assumed that Paul wrote in very large letters because of the issues with his eyesight. It is
important to note here that Paul did not allow his physical handicap to keep him from performing his
spiritual duties.
This letter closes with a stinging rebuke of those who serve the Lord for their own glory. Paul spoke of
those who were trying to make a “good impression outwardly” (NIV) by enlisting large numbers of people
to follow their teaching on circumcision, or, mixing law with grace. There are still many spiritual leaders
(so called) who see numbers as the most important indicator of spiritual or ministerial success. It was also
Paul’s opinion that these teachers supported mixing law with grace so that they could be at peace with the
legalistic Jews and avoid being persecuted for teaching a grace only salvation.
While some seemed to be content to glory in numbers or outward appearances, Paul chose to glory in only
one thing – and that was the cross of Christ.
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Thank God for those that gave their lives to share God’s Word with us. Hold your Bible close to
your heart and know that you have it at a very high cost for many. Kingdom Policy Number One
Hundred Thirty-One: Believers should seek only God’s glory.
Day
26
Evening
Evening Scripture: Ephesians 1:1-12
“Spiritual Blessings”
The key thought in Paul’s opening remarks in this letter is how blessed we are as believers. In verse 3 he
tell us that we are “blessed” with “all” (KJV) or “every” (NIV) “spiritual blessing.” In the first chapter, Paul is
going to speak about the blessings that we receive from the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Some blessings from the Father are listed in verses 1-6 and include the facts that God has chosen us (v. 4);
adopted us (v. 5); and “accepted” us (v. 6 – KJV). The word translated “accepted” in the KJV comes from the
Greek root word for “grace” and is translated that way in the NIV and other translations. This word was
used in only one other place in the New Testament. In Luke 1:28, the angel of the Lord came to Mary and
informed her that she was “highly favored.” The angel went on to explain why she should consider herself
to be “highly favored.” He added, “The Lord is with you!”
Ephesians was written to help us to understand that the Lord is with us as well. Just as we have been
blessed by the Father, we have also been blessed by the Son. Verses 7-12 remind us that Jesus has redeemed
us (v.7a); forgiven us (v. 7b); revealed God’s will to us (vs. 8-10); and has made us an inheritance (vs. 11-12).
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Accept the love of the Father and the Son. Enjoy your blessings! Kingdom Policy Number One
Hundred Thirty-Two: Believers realize that blessings are sometimes more about what we can have
in our hearts than about what we can hold in our hands.
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KINGDOM POLICIES
Day
27
Morning
Morning Scripture: Ephesians 1:13-23
The List Goes On!
After listing the ways that believers have been blessed by the Father and the Son, Paul listed some ways in
which we are also blessed by the Holy Spirit. The first blessing is found in the fact that, at the moment that
we are saved, the Holy Spirit enters our heart “seals” (v. 13) us. The seal declares that we now belong to
God and that nothing or no one can take us from him.
We are also told that the Holy Spirit becomes our “earnest money” (KJV) or “deposit” (NIV). This “deposit”
assures us that we will someday experience total redemption and receive God’s promised blessings in glory.
At the end of each of these three sections on blessings, Paul tells us why the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
have blessed us. Look for the phrase, “To the praise of his glory” in verses 6, 12, and 14. All blessings are to
equip and enable us to glorify God in our lives.
Take a moment and review verses 15-23 and make a note of some of the things that were on Paul’s “Prayer
List” and circle or underscore the things that he wanted these Christians to know and receive.
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Pray very specifically for someone today. You might even ask someone if they have anything that
they would like for you to pray with them about. Thank God for the many blessings that he has
given you. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Thirty-Three: Believers should be praising
God for their many blessings while praying that others might also be blessed.
Day
27
Evening
Evening Scripture: Ephesians 2:1-10
The Believer’s “Position”
Chapter one had much to say about the blessings we possess in Christ while chapter two explains our
position in Christ. We are told that we “sit together” (KJV) or that God has “seated us with him” (NIV) “in
Christ Jesus” (v. 6). To help us understand what that phrase should mean to us, Paul explains three
important things. First, he tells us what we were. We were dead in trespasses and sins (v. 1). We were
disobedient people who walked after the ways of this world and not the ways of God (v. 2). And we were
people who had been enslaved by the temptations and lusts of the flesh (v. 3).
After that, Paul tells us what God did! In verses 4-9 we see that God has “quickened us” (KJV) or “made us
alive” (NIV). He has also raised us up and appointed us a place at his own right hand with Jesus. We are
not there because of us or any good thing that we did. We are there because of Jesus and God’s grace and
mercy.
Then Paul tells us what we are now. In verse 10 we learn that we are God’s workmanship and that we have
been made a new creation that can follow and serve him. Notice that God has “before ordained” (KJV) or
“prepared in advance” (NIV) a wonderful plan for our lives. We may not always know what the future
holds, but we can always know who holds our future!
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Accept God’s call to serve. Seek to discover his plan for your life and follow it faithfully.
Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Thirty-Four: Believers understand that mercy means
that we don’t get what we do deserve and that grace means that we do get what we don’t deserve.
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KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Ephesians 2:11-22
“Reconciled”
Last night we read about our being raised up to sit in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. This morning we read
about being reconciled to God by the cross (v. 16). Because the early churches were becoming integrated
with believers from Jewish and Gentile backgrounds, Paul wanted to address some specific issues relative to
each of these nationalities. First, he talked about what the Gentiles were. In verses 11-12 he explained how
that the Gentiles had been “without” (KJV) or “separate from” (NIV) Christ. By that he meant that they had
not received a promise of a messiah from God. They were strangers, aliens, and foreigners in the eyes of
the Jews and were disallowed in the temple and generally kept at a distance in all manner of life.
In verses 13-17 Paul went on to explain what God did for the Gentiles. He tore down the wall of separation
between the Jews and the Gentiles so that those who were once made to feel as if they were “afar off” (KJV)
or “far away” (NIV) could be near to God.
Paul then explained what the Jews and Gentiles are now. The closing verses of chapter 2 clearly show that,
under grace, all people have equal access to God. Thanks to the work of our “High Priest” (Jesus) every
believer can enter boldly into the Holy of Holies and meet with God. Paul closes with a picture of the
church as a temple or building that is built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets. Each
believer is like a stone in the building that, when “framed” (KJV) or “joined” together, becomes a great
temple for God.
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Commit to becoming a real part of a New Testament church. Move beyond just having your name
on a “roll” to having a “role” in God’s Kingdom work! Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred
Thirty-Five: God has a place of service in the church for every believer.
Day
28
Evening
Evening Scripture: Ephesians 3:1-12
Paul’s Ministry
We can learn a lot about Paul by reviewing the “self-evaluation” that he provides in these verses. First, he
referred to himself as a prisoner (v. 1). Although this statement has a spiritual application, Paul was literally
a prisoner in Rome at the time that he was writing these words. Also, you can read Acts 22:21-22 and see
that Paul’s declaration that God had called him to preach the gospel to the Gentiles created such an uproar
that he wound up in jail!
Later, in verse 7, Paul referred to himself as a “minister” (KJV) or “servant” (NIV). Few ministers see
themselves as servants today, but that is exactly what the word “minister” means. The word translated
“minister” here is the same word that is used when Jesus told his disciples that anyone who desired to be
first must be willing to be a “servant” (Mark 9:35).
Finally, Paul referred to himself as a preacher who was called to preach the unsearchable riches of Christ to
the Gentiles (v. 8).
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Perform your own “self-evaluation” tonight. Based on what you do for the Lord, how would you
describe your ministry? Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Thirty-Six: Every Christian is to
be a minister for Christ.
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Morning Scripture: Ephesians 3:13-21
Day
29
Morning
Paul’s Prayer
In chapter one, Paul’s prayer for these believers was that they might be enlightened (1:15-23). In this second
prayer, he prays that they might be enabled. Paul wanted them to learn about the Christian life and then
live it out before the world! He prays for them to have spiritual strength and that they might be
empowered by the Word. He prays that they would be rooted and established in love and that they might
somehow comprehend the depth of God’s love for them. What he really wanted was for them to be filled
with what he referred to as “fullness of God” (v. 19). In other words, he wanted them to have everything
that God had made available to them as his children.
He reminded his Ephesian friends that they served a God that was able to do immeasurably more than they
could ever ask or imagine! To that God they were to give glory forever and ever!
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Create your own spiritual needs prayer list and then ask God daily to meet those needs. Select
some of the things on this list and pray for them every day for two weeks and see if God does
anything amazing in your life. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Thirty-Seven: Christians
are to be enlightened by God’s Word and empowered by prayer.
Day
29
Evening
Evening Scripture: Ephesians 4:1-13
The Believer’s “Walk”
In the KJV a believer’s lifestyle is often referred to as their “walk.” The word translated walk in Ephesians
4:1 is translated “live” in the NIV. In both translations you find the word “worthy” in the first verse.
Whether you want to say “walk” or “live” you should desire to do it in a way that is worthy of a Christian.
Paul has a few things to say about the lifestyle that a believer should have in tonight’s verses.
It is apparent that one of the main goals of every Christian is to maintain a spirit of unity with other
believers. Take a moment to circle the word “one” every time that you read it in tonight’s Scripture. Doing
so will help us to understand that unity has something to do with being one in Christ. The source of our
unity (vs. 4-6) is the One Lord and our oneness in him. The secret to having unity in the church is found in
verses 7-11. (Note the times that it says that “he” ascended, “he” led, or “he” gave. The secret to unity in the
church is found in each member following the leadership of the Lord.
In verse 11 Paul introduces us to those who are called to be servants of this unity. Notice the different
offices in the church are to work together for one, united purpose. That purpose is to equip and enable
believers to live the life and walk the walk! And notice that they are to keep doing what they do until all
believers reach the unity of the faith, are mature in Christ, and attain to the whole measure of the fullness
of Christ.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Ask yourself if you “endeavor” (KJV) or “make every effort” (NIV) to maintain unity in the church.
Check your attitude to see if it is marked by humility, meekness, patience and the willingness to
forgive others. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Thirty-Eight: Believers should be wise
enough to know the value of unity and willing enough to do what it takes to maintain it.
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Morning
KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Ephesians 4:14-25
“Grow Up!”
When we listen to those who teach us the Word of God, we will no longer be “children” (KJV) or “infants”
(NIV) who are so easily tossed “to and fro” (KJV) or “back and forth” (NIV) by every false teacher that
comes along. Instead, we will be able to speak the truth ourselves and “grow up” into Christ and be all that
he desires for us to be. Note that we are to “speak the truth” but that we are to be sure that we do so “in
love.”
When we become “grown-ups” we realize that we must take our place in the work force. Circle the word
“working” (KJV) or “work” (NIV) in your Bible and realize that there is much responsibility that comes with
our redemption. Our work requires that we live in a world that is not always a positive environment. We
may have to live among people who have given themselves over to the lifestyles that are described in verses
18-19, but we surely do not have to live like them!
Paul tells the Ephesian believers that they are to put off their old way of life (vs. 22-23) and put on a new
way of life (v. 24). If they did so, they would soon find themselves putting away (v. 25 KJV) such immature
things as lying so that they could be speaking the truth to those they encountered along life’s way.
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

How mature are you? It has been said that the measure of your maturity can be found in the
measure of your responsibility. Find a place of service in the church and become a worker for the
Lord. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Thirty-Nine: The difference between a “Peter Pan”
kind of Christian and an “Apostle Paul” kind of Christian is found in their willingness to “grow up.”
Day
30
Evening
Evening Scripture: Ephesians 4:26 – 5:5
Doctrine and Duty
The more we learn from the Bible, the more we learn about the Christian’s duty as a soldier and servant for
Christ. The first three verses of tonight’s reading (5:26-28) tell us much about how a Christian is to act.
We are to make every effort to avoid ever becoming angry and quick to get over it when we do! We are to
come by things honestly, working hard so that we might have enough for our own needs and enough to
share with others who might have needs.
Verse 29 helps us to better understand how a Christian is to speak. Our words should be wholesome and
helpful and should build others up. Our words should be a benefit to those who hear them.
Verses 30-32 should help us see how a Christian should think. We should not be bitter, angry, or malicious
in our thinking. Our thoughts should be kind and compassionate. We should be willing to forgive others
because we live every day in the realization that we have been forgiven by Christ.
The first four verses of chapter 5 help us to understand some of the things that a Christian should be. We
should be “followers” (KJV) or “imitators” (NIV) of Christ, loving others as Christ has loved us. We should
be pure in our lifestyles and careful to avoid the dangerous sins mentioned in verses 3-5.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Act on what you learn from Christ. Speak about what you have in Christ. Think like he wants you
to think and be what he desires you to be. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Forty: What
we can be for Christ is dependent on how we think, speak, and act for him.
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Morning Scripture: Ephesians 5:6-17
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31
Morning
“Empty Words”
The first two verses of chapter 5 taught us that the believer is to walk in love. Moving on, Paul goes on now
to tell us that the believer should also walk in the light (vs. 7-14). When we walk in the light, we will not
become “partakers” (KJV) or “partners” (NIV) with the world. This word is used only in Ephesians – and
very sparingly here. In Ephesians 3:6 we were told that the Gentiles had become “partakers/partners” of the
promise of Christ. As such, we have no business becoming partners with the world and its ways. Light can
have no fellowship with darkness. One has to give way to the other. When we walk in the light, we learn
to walk in ways that are pleasing to the Lord (v. 10) and we will become witnesses against the darkness (v.
11).
The word translated “empty” in verse 6 in the NIV is translated “vain” in the KJV. However, the first two
times that the word is found in the KJV it is translated “empty” (Mark 12:3; Luke 1:53). The word literally
means to “be empty” or “to be without.” In this case it means to speak words that are “empty” or “without
truth.” Walking in the light allows us to walk wisely and in paths that are clearly illuminated by God’s
Word. The more willing we are to walk with Christ, the more wise we will become concerning his will for
our lives.
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Watch how you walk! Love God enough to partner with him and be a light in a very dark world.
Realize that this does not always prove to be popular with some, but always remember that it is
God that we should desire to please. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Forty-One:
Believers are to be partners with Christ and not with the world. Whose side are you on?
Day
31
Evening
Evening Scripture: Ephesians 5:18-29
Walking in the Spirit
The last part of chapter 5 and the first part of chapter 6 help us to see how every believer can walk in love
and light. We do so by walking in the Spirit. In tonight and tomorrow morning’s readings, we will see how
the presence and power of the Holy Spirit can enable us to be lights at home and at work – showing the
way for our spouses, children, parents and business associates. The coming of the Holy Spirit completely
changed the way that church was to be. He who lives within us cannot be contained within the walls of a
building. He cannot be left on a pew or put on a shelf until the next time that we are ready to attend
services. He goes with us everywhere we go and wants to make Christ known to all people. We cannot set
him aside or leave him behind because we have been “filled” with his presence. He has saturated every part
of our being and there is no place within us that he can be locked away and hidden from the world and the
people with whom we live and associate.
His influence will be evident in the words that we speak, the songs that we sing, and the way that we
submit to one another. Notice that these evidences of the Holy Spirit are first exhibited in the home and
between marriage partners. From the home it will spread to the workplace and every place that we go.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Ask yourself, “Is the presence of the Holy Spirit evident in my life? Could my spouse or children
bear testimony that I am a faithful follower of Christ?” Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred
Forty-Two: Believers are to be so filled with the Spirit that it is evident to everyone we know.
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Morning
KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Ephesians 5:30 – 6:9
An Important “Part”
A key to understanding the believer’s walk is found in Ephesians 5:30. We have become one with Christ
and, therefore, we (believers) have all become a “member” (literally “part”) of his body. We are not to
function independently of him or to do anything to or with anyone that he would not do. That is why a
man should love his wife and give his life to her. That is why a woman should “reverence” (KJV) or
“respect” (NIV) her husband and give her life to him.
When we understand that we are a “part” of God’s family and body, we will cease to think only of ourselves.
That will bring about some very powerful and positive changes in our marriages and in our homes. We will
then be able to raise our children and teach them to become followers of Christ as well. There can be no
greater joy than seeing your children find their place in the body of Christ and begin to be a part of the
solution to this world’s greatest needs.
In the church, home, and workplace, the Holy Spirit’s presence reminds us that we are a part of something
very important. He knows well how to be a “part” of something because he is a “part” of what we call the
Trinity or Triune God. We cannot separate God the Father, God the Son, or God the Holy Spirit. We must
acknowledge that they are three and yet one. It is the same with the Spirit and the believer and it should
be the same one believer to another.
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Find a place of service in the church. Allow the Holy Spirit to help you to become a part of
something bigger than yourself. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Forty-Three: All
“members” are vital “parts” in the functioning of the church.
Day
32
Evening
Evening Scripture: Ephesians 6:10-17
Warfare
Paul has taught these believers about their wealth, their worth, and their walk. Now he is going to teach
them about their warfare. In any warfare, it is important to know something about your enemy. In vs. 10-12
we learn that Satan (the “devil”) has many “wiles” (KJV) or “schemes” (NIV) that are employed for one
purpose – to cause the believer to not “stand” when he wages war “against” us. Every Christian needs to
understand that we do not fight against people (“flesh and blood”) but against a power that represents sin
and darkness. When our battles are against “flesh and blood” they may cease to be spiritual. God never
forgets that Satan is the enemy, and neither should we. God loves all people, and, therefore, so should we.
We read on and learn that, in any warfare, it is important that we know something about our equipment.
Our equipment is likened to the different parts of a Roman soldier’s army. God used these illustrations
because everyone who read these words could easily visualize these pieces of armor and understand their
purpose or function.
Our armor is truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Sword. In the first five pieces of armor
we find our protection from the enemy’s weapons. In the final piece of armor, we find our power over the
enemy’s warfare. Notice that we have “the” Sword and not just “a” Sword.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Forty-Four: There is no such thing as a Christian making
a truce with the devil.
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Morning
Morning Scripture: Ephesians 6:18-24
The Importance of Prayer
We have learned about the saint’s enemy and the soldier’s equipment. Now we are to learn about our
source of energy. The power to overcome the wicked one is not found in steel, but in the Spirit. We are to
be praying “always” (KJV) or “on all occasions” (NIV). There is never a time when the believer should not
be praying because there is never a time when we are not in warfare. The Word of God and prayer has
always been God’s program for the church and its victory over the enemy.
We are to be praying for “all the saints.” This is no time for “selective supplications” that are only
concerned with the needs of our own lives and the lives of our families and friends. This is a time for all
believers, everywhere, to be praying for a world-wide empowering of the Spirit that will allow the church to
attack the gates of hell and break them down for the Kingdom of God!
Just as we are to pray for all saints (v. 18), we are to be praying for all servants as well (v. 19). Paul seldom
asked people for anything, but when he did, it was most often for their prayers. His preaching had caused
him to be imprisoned and placed “in bonds” (KJV) or “in chains” (NIV). Wherever he was, free or
imprisoned, Paul’s desire was to speak boldly and openly for Christ. He felt that was what he “ought” (KJV)
or “should” (NIV) do.
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Pray for God’s people and pastors today. Encourage someone who needs it today. Kingdom
Policy Number One Hundred Forty-Five: Prayer is the source of the believer’s power (ability) to
serve and stand.
Day
33
Evening
Evening Scripture: Philippians 1:1-11
Paul’s Joy
Philippians has often been referred to as the epistle of joy. This might be difficult for some to understand,
because Paul’s circumstances were anything but joyful. He had been arrested and taken to Rome. He
wrote this letter while in prison there. How could he write so much about joy from a prison cell? He could
do so because the gospel was the most important thing in his life. He had learned that he could find ways
to spread the gospel no matter where he was. You will find the word “gospel” 5 times in the first chapter of
the book and “Christ” is mentioned 17 times! It is obvious that Paul’s joy was based on his purpose and his
purpose was based on a person! After the typical salutation and introduction, Paul immediately let the
believers in Philippi know that he was thankful for their “fellowship” (KJV) or “partnership” (NIV) in the
gospel ministry.
Even in what might seem to be dire circumstances, Paul prays for others, asking God to continue to use the
church at Philippi to be a blessing to others. He says to them, “I have you in my heart” (v. 7) and I love you
with the love of Christ Jesus (v. 8). Verses 9 -11 could be called Paul’s “Prayer List.” Take a moment and
underscore the things that he was asking God to do for these Christians.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Using verses 9-11 as a guide, pray, asking God to bless our church with the things that Paul desired
for these Christians. Pray for the many Christians that are imprisoned for their faith. Thank God
for some difficult experience that led you to a stronger faith in him. Kingdom Policy Number
One Hundred Forty-Six: Believers can experience joy in any circumstance or situation.
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Morning
KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Philippians 1:12-24
“Let’s Talk About Jesus!”
After reading from some of Paul’s other letters and hearing him share with others about the many trials and
tribulations that he had suffered and survived, it is interesting to note that he says very little about that in
this letter. He seems to sum it all up in one phrase when he mentions, “The things which happened to me”
(v. 12 KJV). He then enters into a song of praise for the fact that God has used his sufferings to encourage
others to preach the gospel. Even the guards and others in the palace were aware that Paul was imprisoned
for one thing only, and that was his commitment to share Jesus Christ with everyone that he met.
Wherever people were, when they learned of Paul’s “bonds” (KJV) or “chains” (NIV), they soon began to
talk about Jesus!
Paul’s paramount and consuming desire was that Christ would be “magnified” (KJV) or “exalted” (NIV)
whether through his life or his death. The word used in verse 20 to describe Paul’s desire was the same
word was used to describe Mary’s desire. Upon hearing the report of what God had intended for her, she
said, “My soul does magnify (“glorifies” – NIV) the Lord!” She went on to say, “And my spirit rejoices in
God my Savior.” This kind of joy is what we will find Paul sharing with his Christian friends at Philippi and
encouraging them to expect and express.
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Ask yourself, “Is Christ exalted (magnified) in my life?” Transform your problems into praise and
he will be. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Forty-Seven: Believers experience great joy
when Christ is exalted in their lives.
Day
34
Evening
Evening Scripture: Philippians 1:25 – 2:8
“J-O-Y!”
If you haven’t heard that J-O-Y stands for, “Jesus, Others, and You!” then you haven’t been in church for
very long. This little tool has become a good way to remind us that “joy” abides within those who allow
Christ to rule over their priorities. As we read through Philippians, we can see the verses from which this
little saying was born. Back in verse 20, Paul clearly put Jesus Christ first. His exaltation was the greatest
priority in Paul’s life. Then Paul clearly put others second. He was willing to be wherever God could use
him the most and continue in his present situation if it was best for others. It is equally clear that Paul put
himself last.
A Christian’s joy can help us all to “C” things in a different light, no matter the situation. Take a moment to
circle the “C” words in tonight’s verses. In the KJV you will find: confidence, continue, Christ, coming,
conversation, conflict, consolation, comfort, and cross. In the NIV you will find: Convinced, continue,
Christ, conduct, come, contending, comfort, compassion, complete, conceit, consider, and cross.
Verses 6-8 sums up the kind of life that Christ lived before us while on this earth. His life was one marked
by humility, selflessness, and a willingness to sacrifice and suffer for the cause of others, even to the point
of being willing to die on a cruel, rugged cross for sins that he did not commit. It is interesting to note that
both of our “C” lists paved a path that led directly to the “cross.”
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Overcome the desire to put yourself first by seeking to exalt Christ in your life. Do something very
“others oriented” at your earliest convenience. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred FortyEight: It is when we humble ourselves that Christ is most exalted in our lives.
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Morning Scripture: Philippians 2:9-18
Day
35
Morning
Get Your “Mind” Right!
A submissive mind always leads to sacrifice and service. We saw that to be true of Christ (2:7-8). We will
now see that it was true of Paul (2:17). The words “sacrifice” and “service” are found in this verse – and in
almost any translation of the Bible. Notice that the words “sacrifice and service,” are followed by “joy and
rejoicing.”
As you read these verses, remind yourself that nothing had changed about Paul’s situation. He was still in
prison. He was still suffering for the cause of Christ. He was still in chains. Actually, his situation seemed
to be growing worse and the possibility of his death growing more severe. However, his attitude was one of
joy and not of sorrow. He encouraged the Christians at Philippi to live without complaining and arguing
(v. 14). In doing so, they would “shine” as “lights” (KJV) or “stars” (NIV) in a very dark world. We know
that the stars are always there, but that they are most visible against the darkness of night. When we have
the right attitude about suffering and sacrifice, we will most assuredly stand out in the darkness and stand
up for Christ. Such a lifestyle can prove to be very contagious! In verse 18 we see the Philippians “catching”
it and experiencing the joy of the Lord.
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Look for a way to encourage a fellow believer today. Express joy in every situation and others will
join you in your praise to the Lord. Pray that the joy of the Lord will be evident in our church and
that we will shine as lights to our world. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Forty-Nine:
Allowing God to change our attitudes will enable God to change the world!
Evening Scripture: Philippians 2:19-30
Timothy & Epaphroditus
Day
35
Evening
We said earlier that a submissive mind leads to sacrifice and service and that sacrifice and service lead to
joy. Just as it was with Jesus and Paul (2:7-8 and 2:17) so it was with Timothy (2:19-22) and Epaphroditus
(2:30). Paul stated that he was going to send Timothy to visit the Christians at Philippi. He paid this young
man quite a compliment when he said that he had no one “likeminded” (KJV) or “no one else like him”
(NIV) that he could send. The KJV hits the nail right on the head with the word “likeminded.” This word is
translated from two Greek words with the first meaning “equal” or “same” and the second meaning “soul”
or “life.” Later, Paul would describe Timothy as one who had, even from his childhood, “known the Holy
Scriptures” (2 Timothy 3:15). The attitude of this young preacher was marked by “service” (v. 22) and
“sacrifice” (v. 21). While others were busy looking out for themselves, Timothy was busy looking after the
needs of others and serving with Paul in the ministry of the gospel.
Most of what you will ever learn about Epaphroditus is found in Philippians 2:25-30. From these verses it is
easy to see that this young man also had the attitude of Christ. He was willing to sacrifice for the cause of
the cross. He lived, “not regarding his life” (KJV) or “risking his life” (NIV) so that others could know Christ
as Savior.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Refuse to be the Christian that breaks the chain of sacrifice and service. Remember that sacrifice
was born in the heart of God and that it is one of the ways that he will use us to reach the hearts of
men. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Fifty: When we serve the Lord, and make sacrifices
for his cause, we continue a tradition that began with Christ and lives on through his saints.
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Morning
KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Philippians 3:1-11
“No Confidence in the Flesh”
The first word of this chapter, “Finally,” is an indication that Paul is beginning a new section to this letter
and that he is moving closer to his closing remarks. Because he was such a “religious” person before his
salvation, Paul is careful to warn his readers against those who preach salvation by the keeping of the law
or its many ceremonies.
Verses 4-11 contain the first part of what we call Paul’s personal testimony. He has much to say about his
past in these verses and this is considered to be one of the most auto-biographical sections of all of his
writings. He opens his heart and allows his readers to see that he had once trusted in his Jewish and
religious background. His religious pedigree was quite impressive. In compliance with the Jewish law, he
was circumcised on the eighth day of his life. He was an Israelite of the tribe of Benjamin. He was a
Pharisee who maintained a lifestyle that was legalistically righteous to the extent that he referred to himself
as “blameless” (KJV) or “faultless” (NIV). No wonder he referred to himself as “a Hebrew of Hebrews!”
Yet he learned that all of those religious awards could never lead to eternal rewards in heaven. He stated
that he counted all of that to be “loss.”
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Learn to give a clear and concise testimony about your own salvation experience. Practice giving it
in private until you can comfortably stand before others and boldly share it in public. Begin with
where you were before salvation. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Fifty-One: No one can
trust in religion or religious activity for salvation.
Eve
Day
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Evening
Evening Scripture: Philippians 3:12-21
Paul’s Present and Future
Paul’s personal testimony began with what his life was like before meeting Christ. His testimony continues
by sharing what his life was like in his present walk with the Lord. In the first part of his testimony, he
sounded like an accountant adding up the debits and credits in his life, hoping to finish his life enough
religion and good works to merit heaven. After meeting Christ, he begins to sound like an athlete. He
likens the Christian life to a race and says that he is pressing toward the mark, or finish line. It appears that
this dedicated preacher senses that he is nearing the end of his “race” and that he desires to finish strong
for the Lord.
The last part of Paul’s testimony was about his future. Athletes had to be citizens of the country that they
represented. In verse 20, Paul declared that the Christian’s “conversation” (KJV) or “citizenship” was in
heaven. Paul expected to see the Lord’s return at any time. He lived every day with the hope that he would
be alive at the time of the rapture. His remark about the “change” (KJV) or “transformation” (NIV) that he
anticipates reminds us of what he taught the Corinthians about the return of Christ and the rapture of the
church. One way or another, Paul believed that a new, glorified body was in his future and that he would
spend eternity in heaven.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Share your personal testimony with someone at your next opportunity. Pray, asking God to bless
your words when you have the chance to share them. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred
Fifty-Two: Christians should have much to say about their past, present and future!
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Morning Scripture: Philippians 4:1-9
Day
37
Morning
“Stand Firm!”
The word “therefore” is a definite indication that Paul is nearing the end of this letter. In this final chapter,
he encourages his Christian friends in this church to “stand fast” (KJV) or to “stand firm” (NIV) in the Lord.
He then speaks to some definite things in which they should stand firm. First, he asks them to stand in
peace. Two prominent women in the church, Euodias (“Euodia” in the NIV) and Syntyche were having a
disagreement of some kind. We are not told what the disagreement was about. It might have been about
something very spiritual, but, in any case, it was something that Paul felt needed to be addressed in the
closing of this letter. These two women who had once “labored” (KJV) or “contended” with Paul for the
cause of the gospel were now contending with one another. The “yokefellow” that was assigned to help
these women through their controversy was not identified. It is not always important to have our name in
the “bulletin”, but it is very important that we all do our part to maintain peace and harmony in the body of
Christ. Maintaining peace in the church was important to Paul and he wanted it to be important to these
Christians.
In verse 7, Paul speaks about the peace of God. When we are saved, we immediately have “peace with God”
(Romans 5:1). As we serve, we are to do so in the “peace of God.” Paul sets forth a step by step process for
experiencing peace. It is found in right praying (vs. 6-7); right thinking (v.8); and right living (v. 9).
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Make harmony and unity in the church a priority in your life. Refuse to participate in church
quarrels or to even take sides among those that are quarrelling. Kingdom Policy Number One
Hundred Fifty-Three: Believers who fight the good fight are never fighting against one another.
Evening Scripture: Philippians 4:10-23
“Stand Firm!” (Part Two)
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37
Evening
In “Part One” of this devotional we saw that Paul desired that the Christians in the church at Philippi stand
in God’s peace with God and with one another. Now we will see that he also encourages them to stand in
God’s power (vs. 10-13). Every Christian should memorize Philippians 4:13 and make it a part of their
spiritual armor. There we learn that we, like Paul, can say that we can do “all things” (KJV) or “everything”
(NIV) “through Christ” who “strengthens” us (KJV) or “gives us strength” (NIV). Paul believed that Christ
alone was the source of the believer’s strength. Take a quick look at John 15:5 and you will see that Jesus
taught the same thing! To attempt to live a godly life without the power of the indwelling Christ is harder
than trying to nail jello to a tree! It just can’t be done!
Last, Paul desired that the Christians in Philippi stand in God’s provision (vs. 14-23). In the KJV, you can
circle the word “things” 28 times! Sometimes it is used in reference to spiritual things, and sometimes to
just “things.” We have to remember that it is God who will “supply” (KJV) or “meet” (NIV) all of our
“needs.” Because of that, Paul could encourage the Christians of that day, and ours, to give God “glory
forever and ever.” To that Paul added, “Amen!” And so should we!
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Memorize Philippians 4:13 and 4:19. Make these two verses a part of your every prayer. Ask God
to supply some “need” tonight – either for you, your family, or for someone you know. Be specific.
Share your prayer request with the one for whom you prayed. Kingdom Policy Number One
Hundred Fifty-Four: Believers do not serve the Lord in their own strength, but in the strength that
the Lord has provided.
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KINGDOM POLICIES
Day
38
Morning
Morning Scripture: Colossians 1:1-12
Epaphras
Paul probably wrote this letter to the church at Colosse while he was imprisoned in Rome. After his typical
salutation, he stated that he had heard some very good things about this church! He had heard about their
strong faith and the love that they had for Christians everywhere. He had heard of their strong hope of
heaven. He considered the faith, love and hope that was so evident in their lives to be evidence of their
close relationship to Christ. How did this church become so strong in their faith, hope, and love? They
had “learned” it from Epaphras (v. 7)!
Epaphras was, no doubt, a teacher and leader in the church at Colosse. He is mentioned only 3 times in the
New Testament. The first reference is here in 1:7, where Paul refers to him as his “dear fellow servant” and
“a faithful minister of Christ.” Later, in 4:12, he calls him “a servant of Jesus Christ.” He is mentioned once
more (Philemon 23) where Paul calls him his “fellow prisoner.”
Tradition states that Epaphras, a native of Colosse, was saved under Paul’s ministry in Ephesus and then
returned to his home city to preach the gospel and establish a church there. I guess that would make the
believers in this city like “grandchildren” to the Apostle Paul!
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Circle the word “faithful” in Colossians 1:2. This is the first (and only) time that Paul referred to any
group by this term in the salutation of any of his letters. Now circle the word “faithful” in 1:7 and
note that it refers to Epaphras. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Fifty-Five: Faithful
ministers are more likely to produce faithful followers.
Day
38
Evening
Evening Scripture: Colossians 1:13-29
“Rescued”
Paul taught that those who have believed on Christ, and accepted him as Savior, had been “delivered” (KJV)
or “rescued” (NIV) from the “dominion” (KJV) or “power” (NIV) of darkness. But that is only half the story!
He went on to say that we have been “translated” (KJV) or “brought” (NIV) into the kingdom of God’s Son,
in whom we have redemption and forgiveness! I think that it is important to note that the KJV includes the
words “through his blood” in verse 14. Some do not want to discuss such things, but we are clearly told that
Christ shed his blood for the “remission” (KJV) or “forgiveness” (NIV) of our sins (Matthew 26:28) and that
“Without the shedding of blood there is no remission or forgiveness of sin (Hebrews 9:22).
Verses 15-29 include one of the most beautiful expressions of love and worship for the Lord Jesus Christ
that you will read anywhere in the Bible! The word “firstborn” (v. 15) is very important. It is one word
made up of two Greek words put together. The “first” part (pun intended) of the word is from the Greek
word that means, “first in time, order, place, honor, or rank.” Notice the ways that Christ is “first” in these
verses. He is “first” in creation (v.15); “first” in the church (vs. 18-23); and, he should be “first” in the life of
every Christian (vs. 24-29). Paul certainly considered himself to be a “minister” (KJV) or “servant” (NIV) of
Jesus Christ.
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Consider the words “delivered” or “rescued” and think about what God has saved you from. Then
re-read the words “Christ in you – the hope of glory” (v. 27) and consider all that God has saved you
to. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Fifty-Six: Believers have been rescued from the
dominion and power of sin and have been given a place of sonship and service in the kingdom of God.
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Day
39
Morning
Morning Scripture: Colossians 2:1-17
Three Warnings
In chapter 2, Paul is going to sound out 3 warnings to these believers. These warnings are just as much for
us as they were for the Christians in Colosse. We will discuss the first 2 warnings this morning and the
final warning tonight. First, in verse 4, he warns them to beware of “enticing words” (KJV) or “fine-sounding
arguments” (NIV). These Christians needed to “beware” (KJV) or “see to it” (NIV) that they were not
“spoiled” (KJV) or “captivated” (NIV) by those who taught them anything that was based on the
philosophies and traditions of this world and not on Christ (v.8). The best way to “test” any teaching is to
ask one question: “Does this teaching make Christ superior to everyone and everything else?” If not, then it
is not doing justice to the one in whom “all the fullness” of God dwells!
Second, they were to beware of religious legalism. These false teachers had blended a little of everything
into the mixture in order to appeal to the religious beliefs to everyone who listened. For these believers,
the temptation was to hold on to the traditions of the Jewish faith. Paul taught that believers had been
forgiven of all sins, and that the “ordinances” (KJV) or “written code” (NIV) was cancelled and nailed to the
cross with Jesus. The cross “triumphed” over the law in the sense that it accomplished that which the law
or religion could never do. Paul assured these Christians that the law was only a “shadow” of things to
come and that Christ became the “body” (KJV) or the “reality” (NIV) for all of the things that these things
could only imply.
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Ask God to give you the wisdom to avoid following after any teacher or preacher that does not exalt
Christ as the only way to God and salvation. Reject any gospel that is Christ “plus” anything!
Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred Fifty-Seven: Believers should be aware that “good
preaching” is more about what is said than how it is said.
Day
39
Evening
Evening Scripture: Colossians 2:18 – 3:11
The Third Warning
Next, Paul warns these Christians to beware of false humility. There were teachers who might attempt to
“beguile” (KJV) them into “voluntary” (KJV) or “false” (NIV) humility. The word “voluntary” indicates that
this is talking about some kind of self-imposed humility that is not born from a true spirit of worshipping
Christ. There were teachers who were guilty of pretending to know things which cannot be known and to
have seen things that cannot be seen. As such, they had become “puffed up” and so spiritually pious that
they were no longer in a right relationship with Christ. In other words, there were those who had become
so spiritually minded that they were of no earthly good to Christ or the church. They were caught up in the
“Do’s” and “Don’ts” of religion and they had lost sight of what their walk with Christ was really about.
Chapter 3 helps us see that the Christian’s walk is to be based on a right relationship with Christ. As such,
we should be “seeking” (KJV) or we should “set our hearts” (NIV) on things above and not on what people
think here. Verse 5 includes some things that we should “mortify” (KJV) or “put to death” (NIV) while verse
8 lists some things that we should “put off” (KJV) or “rid ourselves of” (NIV).
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Commit to living a life of purity that is based on your relationship with Christ. Kingdom Policy
Number One Hundred Fifty-Eight: Christ is our all in all, or everything that we need (v. 11).
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Day
40
Morning
KINGDOM POLICIES
Morning Scripture: Colossians 3:12 – 4:1
Christian Fellowship
When Christ is first in our lives, we will do everything possible to “forbear” (KJV) or “bear with” (NIV) one
another and forgive one another. When dealing with others, we should always be mindful of how Christ
has forgiven us. As Christians, we should always deal with one another in the spirit of love. This means
that we should exhibit the characteristics of love (see 1 Corinthians 13) in our relationships and dealings
with other people. We are to allow the “peace” of God and Christ to “rule” in our hearts. The word “rule” in
verse 15 is very much like our word “umpire” today. This means that we should allow God’s peace to “make
the call” and that we should all agree to abide by what will allow God’s peace to be uninterrupted in our
fellowship.
To do this, we need to have God’s Word dwelling (living) in us so that we can live out our faith in our daily
walk. Take a moment to notice that the characteristics of someone who is filled with the “Word of Christ”
are identical to the characteristics of someone who is “filled with the Spirit” (see Ephesians 5:18-21). Living
in “fellowship” goes beyond just how we live and act in church. It reaches into our marriages, our
parenting responsibilities, and even our relationships at work. Christians are to exhibit the characteristics
of Christ in every aspect of their lives.
Morning Prayer Emphasis:

Continue reading from God’s Word every day. Allow God to be the “decision maker” in all
concerns and disputes. Exhibit Christ in all that you do. Kingdom Policy Number One Hundred
Fifty-Nine: Christians should exhibit the characteristics of Christ in all of their relationships and
responsibilities.
Day
40
Evening
Evening Scripture: Colossians 4:2-18
Some Final Instructions
As Paul closes this letter, he leaves his readers with some important, final instructions. First, they are to
“continue in” (KJV) or to “be devoted to” prayer (v. 2). Then, they are to walk in wisdom (v. 5). This meant
that they were to act wisely towards those who were outside the church, being mindful of their personal
witness to them. They were to be redeeming the time (v. 5). The NIV translates that to say, “Make the most
of every opportunity.”
He adds that our “speech” (KJV) or “conversation” (NIV) should be full of grace and seasoned with salt.
This means that they were to be knowledgeable so that they could provide correct answers to those who
became enquirers about the faith. When Christians exhibit the characteristics of Christ in every aspect of
their lives people around them will begin to enquire about what they see and hear.
Paul closes with some greetings and kind remarks about some fellow servants of the Lord. Notice how Paul
seemed to really know these people. He expressed words of endorsement or encouragement for each. He
then asked that this letter be circulated to other churches and that these Christians read the letter that the
church at Laodicea was currently reading. We are not sure what letter they had at that time. As we read
and obey God’s Word, may we, like Archippus, “complete the work” that we have “received from the Lord”
(v. 17, NIV).
Evening Prayer Emphasis:

Exhibit Christ by encouraging others on a regular basis.
Hundred Sixty: Every believer has a work to complete for God.
Kingdom Policy Number One
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