Minding the things of God

Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory. Colossians 3:2-4

The Bible sees the mind as the place of thought, decision, and intention. Our minds allow us to be rational, to weigh evidence, to make decisions about right and wrong, options, etc. Our minds allow us to worship, praise God, pray, love, repent, and trust. Because we are made in God's image, we have the mental capacities not shared by any animal on the planet. From our text, knowing that we are cleansed in Christ, we can then set our minds on godly things. Notice what Paul says. He says that because we have died with Christ (trusted in Christ and his righteousness provided for us through His death on the cross), that we are to set our minds on the things above, not the things on earth. Paul is not saying we can't think about our mortgage, jobs, food expenses, and family. He is stating that our minds, even if we are thinking about the pressing needs at hand, need to be focused on God and His Word so we can have the wisdom that will help us make godly decisions. We are not of our own. We belong to the one who has purchased us with His blood, (Acts 20:28) and indwelt by God Himself (John 14:23). God is there to help us produce godly living based on His directions. In His presence, your mind is changed and your heart is moved. Spend time in prayer with God and seek His will and guidance. He desires to make His dwelling in us (Exodus 25:8). "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect" (Rom. 12:2).

Blessings,

Noel De Guzman

www.my-wbc.com