Set your mind on things above, not of things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. Colossians 3:2-3
Apostle Paul wrote this letter to the believers in Colossae. The Colossian believers were surrounded by paganism and immorality, but Paul encouraged them to stand firm in their faith by setting their minds on heavenly things.
How can believers set their minds on things above when their feet are on the earth? Every believer in Christ must possess the crucial conviction expressed in today’s verse. Although physically present in the world, we cannot take cues from the culture or practices around us. Paul continues in the subsequent verses that we are to put to death all our sinful and earthly nature. When we die to our sins, we become alive with Christ (Colossians 2:13). We bury our old unholy selves and rise again, putting on our new selves renewed in the understanding of Christ and His character.
It can be challenging for a believer to remain consecrated and holy in this sinful world. However, the truth of the word of God will set us free. Christ is the center of our lives, and our identity is in Him. We should live our lives in Him and for His glory. “Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness” (Colossians 2:7 NLT). When we believe and accept the truth, our hearts and thoughts shall focus on what He desires rather than what the world teaches us.
Hence, as God’s chosen and holy people, let our lives preach the good news of Jesus better than our words.
NB: For a deeper understanding of today’s verse, please read the book of Colossians.
