Repenting for the Kingdom—Part 2
Living under Christ’s rule is like releasing the wheel—He governs better than we ever could.
📚 Devotional Credit:
Excerpt from eManna
📸 Photo Credit:
Photo from Unsplash
The repentance Witness Lee writes about in today’s devotion is not the kind we usually think of—where we regret an obvious sin or misstep. This is deeper. This is repentance not just from sin but from self-rule. Lee points out that many believers are saved but not yet under the kingship of Christ. That may sound shocking, but it’s true: it’s possible to trust Jesus for salvation and yet remain functionally independent in how we live.
This kind of repentance isn’t about feeling bad—it’s about realigning our inner posture. It’s turning from a life governed by our own opinions, preferences, and priorities to one joyfully submitted to the authority of the King. Not because He’s a tyrant—but because His lordship is freedom, His reign is peace, and His rule is love. The Gospel of the kingdom isn't just for those outside—it calls us inside, under the covering of a better government: Christ in us, over us, and through us.
So what does this look like today? Imagine this: you’re in a heated text exchange, and everything in you wants to assert your point. But the Spirit gently nudges you—“pause.” That pause is a chance to repent—not because texting is evil, but because self-rule is sneaky. Or maybe you’re facing a parenting decision and your instinct is to control the outcome. But the Spirit reminds you: “You’re not king here—I am.” These moments aren’t dramatic, but they reveal where the throne is. Repentance here isn’t groveling—it’s gladly handing the reins to the One who leads in love.
📓 Journal Entry – Voice of the Holy Spirit Through Scripture:
You have been made new, and I now dwell in you. But I do not force My reign—you must yield. To be in My kingdom is not merely to speak of Me but to walk with Me as your Lord. Many say “Lord, Lord,” but resist My leading in the small corners of their lives. Yet My kingdom begins within, like leaven in dough, working quietly until it transforms the whole.
When you trust Me not only for salvation but for rulership, you will discover that obedience is no longer burdensome—it becomes your joy. My yoke is easy, and My authority brings rest to your soul. When you surrender your opinions, I give you discernment. When you yield your timing, I unfold My purposes. When you release control, I manifest My peace.
Repent—not as an act of shame, but as an invitation to live under heaven’s rule. Let Me govern your heart, your choices, your reactions, your direction. My kingdom is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit—and it is already within you. Walk in it.
Scripture References: Matthew 3:2; Matthew 7:21; Romans 14:17; 1 Corinthians 11:3; Colossians 3:15; Galatians 2:20
🪞Real-Life Analogy:
It’s like finally taking off a tight pair of shoes after walking all day. You didn’t realize how much pressure you were under until you released it. Living under your own rule feels normal—until you yield. That release, that relief—that’s what it feels like to let Christ govern your life again.
🙏 Prayer of Confidence:
Father, thank You that Your kingdom is already within me. I no longer live under the tyranny of self—Christ is my head, my life, my Lord. I trust Your rule and rejoice that obedience is no longer about striving but surrender. I rest today in the glad reality that I’m under Your loving authority, and I celebrate the freedom that comes with being Yours.