Reality: God’s Kingdom vs. This World | A Reflection on Discipleship and Kingdom Living

In my morning reading, the word reality came up in two different devotions. I felt challenged to think about whether I am living in the reality of this world or the reality of God’s Kingdom. As a woman committed to discipleship and following Jesus, that question stayed with me and caused me to reflect more deeply on the difference between the two.

The reality of this world can be beautiful when I focus on God’s creation—both in nature and in people—the relationships I’m blessed to have, and the endless opportunities He gives me each day to see His hand at work all around me. In many ways, these moments affirm my purpose and calling as a disciple of Christ. And yet, this fallen world is also filled with lies and deception that attempt to pull us off the path of Christ-centered living at every turn.

Over-consumption. Over-commitment. Over-doing. Over-indulging. Over, over, over—again and again. These patterns reveal idols, distractions, addictions, and compulsions that can feel exhausting to overcome as we pursue true discipleship. As a Christian woman seeking to live out my faith, I’m constantly aware of the lies we are told: how much better we’ll look or feel if we just have this or that, how much we have to get done, and how God is "calling" us to this or that. We are even led to believe that being busy with our own agenda is more productive than living on mission as disciples who make disciples.

Living in the reality of God’s Kingdom, in contrast, is not easy—but it is simple. Jesus lived simply. His life gives us a clear model for Kingdom living. He was never in a hurry, never "busy". He owned very little. He prioritized people. His focus was always on carrying out His mission here on earth, preparing His disciples, and advancing the Kingdom of God. His reality was eternally focused. He never lived for this fallen world.

"If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first.  The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world.  I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you."  John 15:18-19

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Romans 12:2

These verses sit at the heart of Christian discipleship and Kingdom coaching. It reminds us that transformation happens when we choose to live differently—anchored in God’s truth rather than the world’s reality.