Definition: Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this incredibly important verse from Luke 17:21. It’s a really powerful message about what true happiness and fulfillment really look like. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, the verse says that God isn't just interested in observing us; He wants to be involved in our lives. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Neither shall they say…” – This suggests that people who are truly living a good and fulfilling life – a life aligned with God’s will – won’t be complaining or looking for something outside of themselves. They won’t be focused on the problems or struggles of the world. “…Lo here!” – This is a key part. "Here" refers to within you. It means your heart, your thoughts, and your spirit are already filled with God's love, peace, joy, and goodness. “…or, lo there!” - This is a contrasting image. “There” represents the world – the things that cause unhappiness, worry, and frustration. It’s the external world, not the internal state of your soul. “Behold, the kingdom of God is within you.” – This is the core message. The Kingdom of God isn't a place we go to; it’s something that exists inside us. It represents: Peace: A deep sense of calm and tranquility. Joy: Genuine happiness and contentment. Love: A willingness to love others, even those who are difficult. Purpose: A feeling of meaning and direction in life. So, what does this verse mean for us? It means that we don't need to find God’s kingdom. It's already there, waiting within us. We can cultivate it by: Practicing kindness: Being compassionate and understanding towards others. Seeking forgiveness: Letting go of anger and resentment. Focusing on positive thoughts: Choosing to think about good things and blessings. Living a life that reflects God's love: Making choices that honor Him and His will. In short, the verse encourages us to look within ourselves to discover our own personal kingdom of peace and happiness – a place where God’s love reigns supreme. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Give you some examples of how to cultivate that inner kingdom? Explain the historical context of this verse (briefly)?