A Royal Priesthood
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How do we see ourselves?
How we see the world determines how we respond to situations. Understanding our position and identity in this world is paramount in determining how we live in it.
“…and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.”
Revelation 1:6
There is clarity in this verse as to what our identity is—we are called by God to be both priests AND kings. He has made, not will make or is making, us for this position. There is no need to strive through works to earn this title—instead, we are called to steward this calling and live in our roles.
What does it mean to be a priest? Priests stand before God and minister to Him; they rest in His presence to better know His heart and His will, rather than simply to satisfy their own will or pleasure.
However, that is not our only position. God makes it clear that we are also royalty—we do not simply face God, but we also stand before His people. Through ministering to Him, we receive from heaven and administer unto Earth. God also makes it clear in the word that becoming a king requires serving others. What better example than Jesus washing the feet of His disciples? He speaks His authority unto us so that we may serve His people.
Priesthood and kinghood don’t operate apart from each other in our lives. Living as a king without priesthood can easily lead to selfishness and ruling with our own agenda. Living only as a priest can limit the ground that you were given the authority from Him to take. To live like Jesus is to walk in both simultaneously.
In our own lives, we are called to take up these mantles and give our attention to Him in full. Let us not be afraid of the authority that He has given us and abdicate our position; know with confidence that He has already ordained you for your role. At the same time, do not take up your position and place yourself on a pedestal over those around you. Understand that you are given authority to serve others.
May we live out our roles as kings and priests no matter where we find ourselves this week. Amen!