When I was very young, I tried to imitate adults or some of the powerful roles in stories we heard. I tried to act as a captain of a ship or a leader of some sort. I never wanted to be a king. Perhaps I was neither confident nor ambitious enough. This sparked a memory of a Bible promise I don’t often think about. In the next life, all believers will share ruling authority with Jesus. Paul mentions this in “Or do you not know that the Lord’s people will judge the world? And if you are to judge the world, are you not competent to judge trivial cases?” (1 Corinthians 6:2) Paul referenced this future privilege because he wanted to inspire believers to settle disputes peacefully on earth. They had been suing each other and consequently harming the reputation of other believers in their community. We become better at resolving conflict as the Holy Spirit produces self-control, gentleness, and patience within us. By the time Jesus returns and completes the Spirit’s work in our lives, we’ll be ready for our eventual role as “You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth.” (Revelation 5:10) Let’s hold on to this promise that glitters in Scripture like a diamond set in a crown of gold.
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