Today’s scripture begins a section in Colossians titled “Putting on the New Self.” I know the titles are not in the original scriptures but they help us to center on the point the writer is making. Here are verses that follow that title. Colossians 3:1-4

Put On the New Self

3 If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. ² Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. ³ For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. ⁴ When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Paul was seeking to reassure the Colossians Christians that their lives were changed forever when the came to know Jesus. If they had accepted Jesus as their savior, then He is their master and His kingdom is most important. Their perspectives on earthly things are not the most important any more. He encourages them to ‘set their minds’ on things above. This means to make a conscience choice to follow Jesus, to walk in His light and obey His commandments. Their lives as believers in Jesus are protected and sealed by the Holy Spirit. They have new lives in Christ! As an added bonus, Paul reminds them that they will see Jesus again in heaven and will appear with Him in glory. That hope of eternity with Jesus was a blessed hope they could know and cling to.

What does this mean to you and me? We too need to put off the worldly goals and attitudes that surround us and focus on living for Jesus. Keeping His commandment to love those around us with His love and walk in faith with Him each day. The idea of ‘setting our minds’ on things above is essential for us as believers too. Otherwise, we will get bogged down in the worries, turmoil and selfishness of our world. Cling to the hope of Jesus’ return and being with Him in glory. That is an image worth holding on to and waiting for.

Because Christ died on the cross and rose from the dead, I can have hope for living each day with His mindset which is heavenly and eternal, not worldly. Cling to hope and let Jesus clear your mind. Lean into Him and He will lead you. He will give you victory!

Linda