Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. Colossians 3:1-2 NIV
The key to success in the Christian faith is to have our hearts and minds set on the things of God. The driving force of all our passion must be Christ alone. Nothing should be more important to us than living a life that is well pleasing to God. As the King James Version puts it, “seek those things which are above,” and “set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” We must pursue, with all our heart, the things of God, instead of the temporary things that matter very little in the light of eternity.
Why is this the case?
For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Colossians 3:3-4 NIV
Christianity is not just a religion or even a lifestyle, it’s a complete surrender to God that involves dying to self, and finding new life in Christ. Our whole purpose for living must transition from the pursuit of earthly, temporary goals, to knowing God and enjoying a fulfilling and lasting relationship with Him.
So what kind of activities and attitudes reflect a heart set on earthly things?
Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Colossains 3:5-10 NIV
And what reflects a heart set on the things of God?
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Colossians 3:12-14 NIV
With these verses as a guide, you can easily evaluate any desire, activity or attitude that comes naturally to you and discern which nature is alive in your heart and mind, the nature of Christ or your own human nature. If you find the latter is more often in control, then you need to carefully consider what you value most. What is your heart set on? What will bring you the most joy, the things on earth or the things above? Set your affections accordingly and pursue them with all your heart! Die to yourself and live for God, let nothing divert your mind or your affections from Him!