What does “your kingdom come” mean? The Bible teaches that this phrase is a prayer for God’s rule and reign to be established in our hearts, our lives, and the world, as His purposes are carried out on earth (Matthew 6:10).
This article is part of our Prayer Series: What the Bible Really Says About Prayer, where we are learning to grow in both understanding and practice.
This question builds directly on What Does “Hallowed Be Your Name” Mean?, moving us from worship into surrender to God’s purposes.
After honoring God’s name, Jesus teaches us to pray: “Your kingdom come.”
But what exactly are we asking for when we pray this?
The Saying
“God’s kingdom is only something that will happen in the future.”
The Problem
Many people think of God’s kingdom only as heaven or something far away.
But if that is all it means, then this prayer would have little impact on our daily lives.
Jesus, however, teaches us to pray for something that affects both the present and the future.
What the Bible Actually Says
Matthew 6:10 (ESV)
“Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”
Luke 17:21 (ESV)
“For behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you.”
Revelation 11:15 (ESV)
“The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever.”
God’s kingdom is both present and future—it is already at work and still to come in fullness.
The Truth About “Your Kingdom Come”
When we pray “your kingdom come,” we are asking for God’s rule to be established more fully:
- In our hearts — that we would submit to His authority
- In our lives — that we would live according to His ways
- In the world — that His purposes would be carried out
This prayer shifts our focus from our own plans to God’s greater purpose.
It means saying:
“God, let Your will take priority over mine.”
It also points forward to a day when Christ will reign fully and perfectly.
So when we pray this, we are not only looking at today—we are looking toward eternity.
Prayer becomes not just personal—but kingdom-centered.
Living It Out
- Ask God to rule in your heart and decisions
- Align your life with His Word and His ways
- Pray for God’s work in your family, church, and world
- Live with an eternal perspective, not just a temporary one
When you pray for God’s kingdom to come, you are inviting Him to take His rightful place in every part of your life.
And as that happens, your priorities begin to change.
A Short Prayer
Father, Your kingdom is greater than anything I can see. Help me to submit to Your rule in my heart and to live according to Your will. Use my life for Your purposes, and help me to trust in Your plan both now and for eternity. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Continue Learning
This article is part of the Daily Diamonds series: Does God Hear Me? What the Bible Really Says About Prayer. Each article builds on the last to help you grow in a clear, biblical understanding of prayer.