Light for Living began as a writing
ministry of Pastor Gary Click while pastoring the Calvary Baptist Church in
Clinton, IN. His articles were published in the local newspaper, The Daily
Clintonian. They were also distributed to email subscribers and several were
posted on this website.
Shortly after
assuming the pastorate of the Fremont Baptist Temple, Fremont, OH, he was
approached by Pastor James Lewis and chief operator, Brian Benedict about
providing a two thirty-minute Radio Programs for the weekend. (WHVT
90.5 fm) At this point, Pastor Click's writing ministry transformed into a
radio ministry.
Due to time constrains, the
weekly devotional gave way to the radio ministry. However, these devotionals are
still available online through the Light for Living Archives.
Pastor
Click is still active in writing bible studies, dramas and devotional articles
for other applications. We hope to make those resources available soon.
Are you anticipating the Coming Kingdom of our Lord? Do you look forward to His return and the establishment of His kingdom? His kingdom is a coming kingdom. We have seen His throne room in heaven through the Scriptures in Isaiah 6 and Revelation 4. Those are brief but powerful descriptions. They fill my heart with anticipation
of his coming kingdom.
I once knew a young man who argued that we are now in the kingdom. If we are, I am greatly disappointed. The truth is that he had an entirely unscriptural view. His kingdom is not currently established in this world. In fact, the kingdom of this world has been usurped by the Wicked One. Surely the world would not be in such turmoil otherwise. You will recall the Lucifer set about to exalt himself above God. (Isaiah 14:12-15) Jesus himself confirmed that Satan is the prince of this world. "Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me."
(John 14:30). Just as Absalom and Adonija attempted to usurp the throne of David and were put down, so will Satan be.
Jesus is the rightful heir to the throne. He has already been exalted to the throne in heaven.
"Him hath God exalted with his right hand [to be] a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins." (Acts 5:31) He reigns in heaven at this very moment, but the kingdom is not yet established on this earth. I look ahead with great eagerness to that day when it will be. "These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful."
(Revelation 17:14)
His kingdom is a coming kingdom. I envy the Apostle John. Two thousand years ago, God allowed him to look ahead through time and see the coming kingdom.
"And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband." (Revelation 21:1,2)
How John's heart must have raced with excitement upon this vision. He was ready for it. He was ready for the kingdom to come that very moment. Three times after this vision, John heard Jesus say,
"I come quickly." (Revelation 22:7, 12, 20) Finally, John could not contain himself and exclaimed. "Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus." I must say that I am inclined to agree. I am persuaded to pray,
"Our Fatherwhich art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come. "
I can think of two reasons a person ought not to pray this way. A lost person should not be eager for this moment. You cannot rightfully anticipate the coming kingdom until you know that you have a part in it. The backslidden Christian must also be reluctant in his anticipation of this moment. He will stand before his King with many regrets. Should you find yourself in this class of people, you can change your situation today. I urge you to prepare for His coming kingdom.
