Living with a Heavenly Mindset Colossians 3:2
Introduction:
Today, we explore the transformative power of setting our minds on heavenly things, as inspired by Colossians 3:2. This passage calls us to live with a heavenly perspective, shaping our thoughts and actions in alignment with eternal truths.
Colossians 3:2 (NLT): "Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth."
Point 1: Setting Our Minds on Heavenly Things
The apostle Paul urges believers to fix their thoughts on heavenly realities rather than earthly concerns. This call is not about neglecting our earthly responsibilities but prioritizing eternal values in our daily lives.
Setting our minds on heavenly things means cultivating a perspective shaped by God's kingdom and eternal truths. It involves aligning our thoughts with God's will, which transforms our attitudes and behaviours.
Matthew 6:19-21 (NLT): "Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be."
In this passage, Jesus teaches about the transient nature of earthly possessions and the enduring value of heavenly treasures. He calls believers to invest in eternal matters rather than being consumed by temporary pursuits. By prioritizing heavenly treasures, our hearts align with God's kingdom purposes, shaping our desires and priorities.
Philippians 4:8 (NLT): "And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise."
Paul exhorts believers to focus their minds on virtuous and uplifting thoughts. By cultivating a mindset grounded in God's truth and goodness, we guard against worldly influences and align our thoughts with God's perspective.
C.S. Lewis said, "Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither."
Point 2: Renewing Our Minds
Living with a heavenly mindset requires the ongoing renewal of our minds through God's Word and Spirit. As our minds are transformed, we begin to discern God's will and experience His peace.
Renewing our minds involves actively engaging with Scripture, prayer, and fellowship with believers. This process replaces worldly thinking with God's perspective, leading to spiritual growth and maturity.
Romans 12:2 (NLT): "Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect."
Paul emphasizes the transformational power of renewing our minds according to God's truth. By rejecting worldly conformity and embracing spiritual renewal, believers align with God's will and experience His transformative work in their lives.
Ephesians 4:23-24 (NLT): "Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy."
Paul encourages believers to allow the Holy Spirit to renew their thoughts and attitudes. This renewal leads to a transformative change, reflecting the righteousness and holiness of God in our lives.
Rick Warren said, "God's Word is the perfect guide for a heavenly perspective."
Point 3: Living as Citizens of Heaven
Embracing a heavenly mindset means living as citizens of God's kingdom while on earth. This identity empowers us to live with purpose, hope, and joy amid life's challenges.
Our identity as citizens of heaven influences our priorities, decisions, and relationships. We are called to reflect the character of Christ and advance His kingdom on earth.
Philippians 3:20-21 (NLT): "But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior. He will take our weak mortal bodies and change them into glorious bodies like his own, using the same power with which he will bring everything under his control."
Paul reminds believers of their heavenly citizenship and the future transformation awaiting them. This truth encourages believers to live with an eternal perspective, eagerly anticipating Christ's return and the ultimate redemption of their bodies.
1 Peter 2:11 (NLT): "Dear friends, I warn you as ‘temporary residents and foreigners’ to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls."
Peter underscores the temporary nature of our earthly existence and warns against being entangled in worldly desires. Believers are called to live distinctively, avoiding sinful influences that jeopardize their spiritual well-being.
Charles Spurgeon said, "Seek those things which are above, for the heart will never be right unless it be renewed in heavenly things."
Application and Call to Action:
These passages collectively emphasize the importance of prioritizing heavenly treasures, cultivating virtuous thoughts, renewing our minds through God's truth, embracing our heavenly citizenship, and guarding against worldly influences. They call believers to live with a transformed mindset that reflects God's kingdom values and anticipates the eternal inheritance awaiting us.
Living with a heavenly mindset transforms every aspect of our lives. Let us commit to:
Prioritizing eternal values in our thoughts and actions.
Engaging daily in renewing our minds through Scripture and prayer.
Embracing our identity as citizens of heaven and reflecting Christ's character on earth.
Let us live today with a heavenly perspective, impacting our world with the truth and love of God's kingdom.
