“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)
Life is full of distractions. Fair statement? So, when we are called to set our minds on the things above, that’s no small task for me. Life is busy … work, family, friends, chores around the house, ministry. You already know the list. Lately, I have been reminded that while many of the things that distract us are in themselves good and necessary, they are not to be separated from the focus of this calling. I have been learning (again) that I ought not to view life as different compartments but rather to remember that I need to “seek the things above” in everything I do. And sometimes that’s hard to do and easy to forget.
I have been reading through the Proverbs recently and this concept seems to be showing up as wise practical living that is rooted in “setting our minds” on the fear of the Lord. It is described as hating what is evil and “setting our minds” to choose the righteous path. This is where it starts to get a little difficult. This perspective should affect every part of our life; our reactions to circumstances, the direction and tone of our words, our compassion, attitude toward others, how we handle money and prioritize work, etc. Romans 8:5-6 tells us that “those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace” (I like life and peace!). God has been working on me, teaching me to set my mind on the things above in everything I do, while I’m doing it!
As the Spirit gives this reminder, it becomes more natural to put our trust in God and find joy in Him. This world (the things of the flesh) continues to disappoint us when that’s all we see. Right? There is so much more meaning in what we do when we set our minds on the things above, where Christ is, seeking His glory.
Don Hamilton, Men’s Ministry Coordinator