How to Reign in Life

Inside each of us is a strong, confident, victorious person. You were created to reign in life, crowned with favor and destined to overcome obstacles and accomplish your dreams. The Scripture says there is “a king and priest” in you (Revelation 1:6). But there are also negative forces at work—fear, insecurity, doubt, guilt, disappointments, and discouragement. You face a big obstacle and think, “I can’t do it.” The king is in you the whole time, but here’s the key: He doesn’t automatically come out. When the medical report isn’t good and you feel the fear, you have to rise up and say, “I will not fear. No weapon formed against me will prosper.” When thoughts of inferiority tell you that you’re not good enough, call out the king and say, “I am fearfully and wonderfully made. I’ve been handpicked by the Creator of the universe. Royal blood is flowing through my veins.” When you’re tempted to give in to temptation, and everything in you says, “Just do it. It’s not going to hurt,” call out the king and say, “I am disciplined. I am focused. I make decisions that honor God.” That’s how you call out the king in you.  

But too many times we’re calling out the wrong things. “I’m a victim. I’ve had bad breaks. Life’s not fair.” God never said we wouldn’t have hardships or face injustices and betrayal, but He did say He would take what was meant for harm and turn it for our good, that He has beauty for those ashes. But you have to do your part. The victim will naturally come out with bitterness and a chip on your shoulder. That happens without you asking. That’s the flesh, your carnal nature. You have to call out the king. He’s waiting for you to summon him. Once he hears you rising up in faith, declaring God’s promises, staying in peace when you could be upset, the king in you shows up.  

God says you are to “reign in life through Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:17). To reign means to have authority to rule, but it’s not to rule over people or circumstances. It’s not to pay an offender back or make an obstacle go away or a problem turn around. No, it’s to rule over your thoughts and attitude. It’s to rule over temptation, over anger, worry, and doubt. Quit using your energy to try to rule over things that you have no control over. You can’t control other people, the traffic, or the medical report. All that worry and stress is going to steal your peace and your sleep at night. Try a better approach and rule over your emotions, your bad attitude, your feeling sorry for yourself. That’s how you rise above challenges. That’s calling out the king in you—the victorious, strong, confident, peaceful, joyful you.