Piece by Peace - Stephanie Fincher

Piece by Peace

FREEDOM IN UNFAIRNESS: “QUEENS” IN AN UPSIDE-DOWN KINGDOM

written by Stephanie Fincher

We’ve all heard the artistry of barter on the playground…”Fair and Square,” “Fifty-Fifty,” and good ol’ “Even Steven” (who’s he, anyway?). These time-tested phrases, among others, were fit for nearly any kid-designed negotiation strategy. Whether it was dividing up candy, deciding who would “go first” in the next game, or sharing space with a sibling in the same bedroom, an equitable result was top priority. Securing your “fair share” meant being assertive and standing your ground; otherwise, you risked losing on the deal, which somehow felt wrong. Though many of us were taught to be kind and share with others, no one had to teach us to be offended when “injustice” seemingly barged its way into a deal. Hard truth: This is our nature according to Romans 3:10 - “As it is written, ‘There is no one righteous, not even one.’” (NIV)

Fast-forward into present-day and let’s dive into a fair and square check-up. Many of us strive to live by the “do unto others” rule found in Matthew 7:12, and we do pretty well until…life happens…when the car next to us in traffic quickly squeezes into our lane without warning or signal; a fellow committee member receives gushing accolades for work bearing your final touch; or the person you’re struggling with refuses to share responsibility for the misunderstanding. From minor affronts to deep distresses, the list goes on, but honestly, who wants to be reminded of what we know occupies our disgruntled hearts? Some of us are acutely aware of these tendencies and feel the bending weight of un-Christ-

like responses all too regularly. We beat ourselves up on the inside as though it depends on us to stuff the unwelcome jack-in-the-box back into its container one more time. We easily identify with the cry of the Apostle Paul in Romans 7:15 and 7:18 – “For I do not understand my own actions. I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate…For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out.” (ESV) It can be downright exhausting and certainly discouraging! How about some hopeful news that promises a crowning bonus? God does not leave His servants to figure it out alone and there exists a “kingdom freedom” to be experienced both now and in eternity! Allow me to explain…

In Matthew 19:27-30, Jesus speaks of the kingdom of God when His disciple, Peter, wants to know what heaven has in store for him. Peter says, “We [the disciples] have given everything to follow you.” Jesus explains that everyone who has given all to follow Him will receive not only a hundred-fold in return, but eternal life as well! The chapter closes with a powerful posture for all believers to continually consider: Jesus declares, “But many who are first [on earth] will be last [in God’s Kingdom], and the last [on earth] will be first [in God’s Kingdom].” This is a different way of thinking that has surely tested mankind for centuries. It doesn’t always seem fair to give up “first” when the Holy Spirit gently nudges, but neither is it a glamorous feeling when you don’t. Additionally, “first” on earth is temporary; it has a definitive end, but “first” in God’s Kingdom is forever.

The practical is this: As we seek the Lord’s wisdom, He stands ready to infuse His unlimited strength and resources as we trust His way and forsake our own. It can be difficult to initially release certain actions (or words) against us and especially so if it comes from those we love. By no means does this infer a “doormat mentality.” My own strong tendencies still fight for the right balance and God ensures opportunities for me to practice daily! And through this, I have learned how to adjust my “rightful” boundaries which have produced an inner rest and contentment I had not known. It was freeing to realize my citizenship in an upside-down kingdom of allowing God to whisper, “Don’t say that here,” or “Don’t do that now – let it go.” Surrendering these areas removed me from certain battlegrounds I didn’t belong in and gave me a fresh view of the Kingdom to come. Won’t you join me today as a “Queen of the Upside-Down” in this earthly kingdom? The joy of an unfading crown to lay at His holy feet in a perfect Kingdom awaits you. “Fair and Square” and “Even Steven” do not dwell there and remain eternally out of a job. So come, let’s be queens together!!

Disclaimer: Articles in this column are the opinion of the author and not intended as professional advice or counsel. If such services are needed, please consult your local church or county for a list of resources.