How to Turn the World Upside Down: Day Two
Day 2: The Upside-Down Kingdom
Devotional
The world has its own definition of power—force, control, dominance. But Jesus introduced a completely different kind of kingdom, one that operates by principles that seem upside-down to our natural thinking. In Christ's kingdom, the first shall be last. Leaders are servants. Strength is found in weakness. Victory comes through surrender. The King Himself conquered not through military might but through sacrificial love on a cross. This upside-down kingdom doesn't advance through political power or forceful coercion. It spreads heart by heart, life by life, as people willingly bow to Jesus as Lord. When we surrender to Christ, we join this counter-cultural movement that has been turning the world upside-down for two thousand years. The early Christians weren't accused of causing trouble because they had political influence or military strength. They were accused because the message they carried and the lives they lived challenged the very foundations of their society. They proclaimed a King above Caesar and lived by values that contradicted the surrounding culture. When we truly embrace Jesus as King, our lives will look different. We'll love differently. Forgive differently. Use our resources differently. And this difference has the power to impact everyone around us.
But he was pierced for our transgressions;
he was crushed for our iniquities;
upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace,
and with his wounds we are healed.
- Isaiah 53:5
Reflection Question
In what ways might your life look different if you fully embraced the upside-down values of Christ's kingdom rather than the values promoted by our culture?
“Christ's kingdom is not advanced by force or politics.
It advances through human hearts that bow in surrender to him.”
— Pastor Mike Mura
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Your kingdom operates so differently from the kingdoms of this world. Help me to embrace Your upside-down values—finding strength in weakness, victory in surrender, and life through death to self. Thank You for the peace and healing that came through Christ's sacrifice. Use me to advance Your kingdom in the hearts of those around me. Amen.