The Christian faith is filled with paradoxes that require deep trust in God’s wisdom. One of the most profound is the principle of “already but not yet.” This concept is woven throughout Scripture, shaping our understanding of God’s Kingdom, salvation, and ultimate redemption.

Jesus Himself declared, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel” (Mark 1:15, ESV). With Christ’s first coming, the Kingdom of God has indeed broken into human history. Through His life, death, and resurrection, we now experience the grace and power of the Gospel, transformed as new creations in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Yet, despite this reality, the world remains in brokenness. Sin, suffering, and injustice persist. Paul expresses this tension well: “For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God” (Romans 8:19, ESV). While we are already redeemed, we still await the full realization of that redemption when Christ returns. The final victory over sin and death is certain, but we are in the in-between—living in the present reality of God’s reign while anticipating the fullness of His promises.

This paradox affects every aspect of our walk. We experience the Holy Spirit’s power now, yet we still struggle against sin. We proclaim the Gospel boldly, yet we see many reject it. We know Christ reigns as King, yet we await the day every knee will bow (Philippians 2:10-11).

Living in this tension requires faith, patience, and perseverance. It means holding onto hope, knowing that while we may face trials, our present suffering is not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed (Romans 8:18). It means walking in obedience, not just looking forward to eternity but also being salt and light in the world today.

This principle also applies to work and personal finance. As believers, we are called to be diligent and faithful stewards of the resources and opportunities entrusted to us. Proverbs 21:5 reminds us, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.” While we may not see immediate financial rewards or career advancements, we trust that our labor in the Lord is never in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58).

Moreover, financial wisdom calls us to live with an eternal perspective. While we build wealth and provide for our families, we recognize that true security comes not from earthly riches but from our relationship with Christ (Matthew 6:19-20). The “already here but not yet” principle teaches us to balance contentment in our present work with a hopeful anticipation of what God is still doing in and through us.

This principle also extends to family life, discipleship, and church community. In our families, we experience the joy of God’s love, yet we still struggle with imperfections and conflicts. As we raise children or nurture relationships, we rely on God’s grace, knowing that He is continually at work in our homes (Deuteronomy 6:6-7).

Discipleship follows a similar pattern—we grow in faith and help others do the same, yet we know that maturity in Christ is a lifelong journey (Philippians 1:6). The church community, too, embodies this paradox. It is a place of encouragement and worship, yet it remains a gathering of imperfect people striving toward holiness. We are called to love, serve, and build one another up as we anticipate the perfect unity we will one day share in eternity (Hebrews 10:24-25).

This principle reminds me that my calling is both present and future. God’s work in my life is ongoing—sanctifying me daily, preparing me for the day when faith becomes sight. Until then, I press on, embracing both the already of Christ’s victory and the not yet of its completion, longing for the day when He will make all things new (Revelation 21:5).

Come, Lord Jesus.