“Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2 NIV). As I read this statement by Paul and apply it to myself, I notice first that it is an action – a choice – to set my mind… I wonder, then, what are these things above?
Paul first tells Jesus’ followers that since we have been raised with Christ (no longer living in sin), we are to set are hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God (verse 1). Around the holy God… I am reminded that I am no longer to be living in sin. Because I have been rescued from sin, I do not have an excuse to justify my sin, and I have the power of the Holy Spirit help me with this. Praise the Lord!
Jesus tells us to pray that God’s will be done on earth as it is in heaven. As Christ followers, we are to be carrying out his will on earth. In part, that means we are to be exuding love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control – the fruit of the Spirit at work in us. Inherent in goodness is being just, which aligns with God’s holiness. We are to love as Jesus loved while on earth, which means to love others, without condoning a sinful situation.
We are to love others deeply, stemming from forgiveness (1 Peter 4:8). It is helpful for me to remember that because I am forgiven, I ought to forgive others. I sometimes make choices that do not have ideal results; therefore, I should be gracious to others when they do likewise. God demonstrates grace and mercy to me, and I need to extend that also to others, as Jesus tells us in Luke 6:36.
When my mind is set on things above, I will be focused on Jesus Christ, King of kings and Lord of lords. I will choose to set my mind on loving like Jesus.