Last week in India I met believers facing increased persecution because they are following Christ. But the Kingdom of God in India continues to grow exponentially. Believers from a neighboring nation told me about the persecution they are facing. Next week, I plan to be in another Asian nation where I will meet believers who are threatened with prison if they share their faith in Christ with the local people. But in each nation I visit, even in the face of persecution, the Kingdom of God continues to grow. Jesus told the religious people of his day that his kingdom is not something we can see with our natural eyes, but “the kingdom of God is within you.“ (Luke 17: 20,21)

During this season in my nation of America, there is a major focus on new leadership. May we never forget the scriptural admonition: “since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.” (Heb. 12:28) I have great hope for the church in this hour. Let us continue to be thankful and make our main focus the kingdom of God.

And for my American brothers and sisters in Christ, from a heart of thanksgiving and worship, let us pray and vote as His Spirit leads us. And together, throughout the world, we will continue to look forward to the day when “The kingdoms of this world become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever.” (Rev.11:15)