Heavenly Minded

If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.

Colossians 3:1-2 ESV

If you have ever had young children in your life, you quickly realize how much they live in the present.

They have a difficult time realizing the future consequences of their actions. They will draw on the wall knowing that once you walk into the room you will not be happy with it.

You can threaten to take away a special privilege happening the next day and they will still disobey when you walk out of the room.

As followers of Jesus, we are not much different than young children who live in the tangible present and forget the spiritual realm.

The Apostle Paul reminds the church in Colossae of this.

He tells them that as followers of Jesus, we should not focus on the present circumstances, but on the things above, spiritual things.

This is not easy, but can have an immediate impact on the here and now on this earth. Paul lets us know how this changes us:

We let go of our earthly, sinful nature, and we step into our renewed selves. Colossians 3:5-10

We become compassionate, kind, humble, meek, patient, forgiving. Colossians 3:12-13

We become more loving, and we have the peace of Christ. Colossians 3:14-15

Our hearts are grateful and kind. Colossians 3:16-17

We hope that these would encourage you to take a moment to consider if you are viewing your life through an earthly lens, or heavenly lens.

There is plenty of room for all of us to work on focusing on Jesus and his work, instead of ours here on the earth.

Prayerfully consider today where we are at in this journey.