This last weekend I had the privilege of hearing great teaching from the book of Colossians.  Verses 3:1-3 reminded me of our Lenten journey and our desire to reflect on what we have in Christ.

“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.  For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.” 

Knowing Jesus our place with Christ is assured, we already have victory over death and a place in heaven with Him.  Since that is the case, our ‘job’ so to speak is to reflect Him in all we say and do.  We need to set our minds on things above-moving towards sanctification or growing more and more like Jesus.  To help us in this process Philippians 4:8 gives us more specific directions “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy- think about such things.  Filling our minds with good things helps us to rise above quarrels, dissensions and worldly pursuits.  Try this today- fix your mind on good things and don’t let yourself be dragged down or embroiled in conflict.  Choose a verse of scripture to meditate on, pray short arrow prayers throughout the day or call a friend and talk about Jesus.  Any of these will help to keep your mind on things above –setting your mind on things above.  We have a promise from Jesus that our life is now hidden in Him!  Know it and claim it today.  Let yourself hide in Him, not hide away but in and covered by Jesus.  He will protect and shield you from worldly things that would seek to keep you from bringing glory to your Lord.

Prayer:  Dear Lord, keep my mind occupied on things above today that I may rise above the earthly quarrels and pursuit that surround me.  Help me to focus on You so that I may know You more fully and glorify You in all I say and do.  Only in Jesus, Amen.

Desiring to set my mind on things above and to stay hidden in Christ,

Linda