Colossians 3:1-3 NKJV
1 If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. 2 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.
To enjoy the abundant life that Jesus came to give us, we must think and see things from a whole new level. Paul says that because we have been raised with Christ, and we are seated with him in heavenly places, then we ought to have a different perspective. We must set our minds on things above and not on the things of the earth. This means that we have a choice to make, and this choice has to be deliberate and ongoing.
To set our minds on the things of the earth is to limit ourselves. Our thoughts determine what we perceive and believe, which in turn determines the quality of life we live.
As believers, we are admonished to no longer conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds.
We renew our minds by reading and meditating on the word which gives us the mind of Christ.
When we set our minds on the things above, the things that are unseen which are eternal, then we will not be concerned with the natural happenings or the temporary circumstances we find ourselves in.
A renewed mind will give us a new character, and it will affect for the better how we relate to others.
It is also important to note that an eternal mindset is a content mindset because we know the good things that God has already prepared for us through Christ Jesus.
The Bible tells us that contentment with godliness is great gain. Not just contentment, but contentment that is backed with godliness, meaning we have a relationship with God, and we have an eternal perspective. We are content no matter the circumstances because we are standing on the promises of God, and we know that all things work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose.
Reflections.
What is the one thing you tend to think about a lot? Why?
What does setting your mind on things above mean to you?
How have your thoughts and perspective of life affected the quality of life you live?
