How can we "seek the things above" in our daily lives today? Setting the Scene Colossians 3:1: “Therefore, since you have been raised with Christ, strive for the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.” Paul roots the command in a finished fact: believers have been raised with Christ. The resurrection reality fuels a new pursuit—an upward, Christ-centered focus that reshapes every ordinary moment. What “Things Above” Encompass • Christ Himself—His character, reign, and glory (Hebrews 12:2) • His kingdom priorities (Matthew 6:33) • Eternal values that do not fade (1 Peter 1:4) • The righteous lifestyle that mirrors heaven’s culture (Philippians 3:20-21) Practical Pathways to Seek the Things Above • Fix the Mind Daily – Set mental default settings on eternal truths: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” (Colossians 3:2) – Meditate on what is true, noble, and pure (Philippians 4:8). • Anchor in Scripture – Schedule unhurried time in the Word. – Store verses in memory: “I have hidden Your word in my heart, that I might not sin against You.” (Psalm 119:11) • Cultivate Continuous Prayer – Short, honest conversations with God through the day (1 Thessalonians 5:17). – Approach the throne of grace with confidence (Hebrews 4:16). • Worship Through Work and Routine – Offer every task, email, diaper change, or meeting as service to Christ: “Whatever you do in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” (Colossians 3:17) – Maintain gratitude as the soundtrack of the heart (1 Thessalonians 5:18). • Choose Eternal Priorities – Funnel resources—time, money, talents—toward kingdom purposes (Matthew 6:19-21). – Pursue relationships over possessions; people outlast things (1 John 2:17). • Walk in the Spirit – Keep in step with the Spirit, producing love, joy, peace, and the rest of the fruit (Galatians 5:16-25). – Say an immediate “yes” to Spirit-prompted obedience. • Put Off Earthly Vices – Paul names what to drop: sexual immorality, greed, anger, slander (Colossians 3:5-9). – Replace them with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience (Colossians 3:12-14). • Engage the Church Family – Stir up one another to love and good works (Hebrews 10:24-25). – Share burdens, celebrate victories, speak truth in love (Ephesians 4:15-16). • Live with Future Glory in View – “Our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory.” (2 Corinthians 4:17) – Keep eyes on the appearing of Christ and the inheritance to come (1 Peter 1:13). Daily Reminders for an Upward Life • Raised with Christ—identity settled. • Seated with Christ—security assured. • Seeking Christ—priority defined. • Showing Christ—mission embraced. |
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