“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. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.” (Colossians 3:1-4)
Do you ever feel like you’re dead? You’re not! The Bible proclaims, “You have been raised with Christ.” Do you ever feel like you’re all alone? You’re not! Christ is with you. In fact, “your life is now hidden with Christ in God.” Do you ever feel like you don’t have a purpose? Like life isn’t going anywhere? It is! One day, when Jesus returns, “you also will appear with him in glory.”
How does that sound? When you read the little books of the New Testament, like Colossians, you come to a turning point about half-way through the book. The first half of the book often focuses on what Jesus has done for us as our Savior. Then, the second half of the book turns to you and me and applies Jesus’ salvation to us. It’s a beautiful thing! Jesus’ resurrection means you have been raised. Jesus’ ascension into heaven means there is a home waiting for you there. Jesus’ return on Judgment Day means that one day you will see Jesus in all his glory, and Jesus is going to share that glory with you.
This is who you are: A child of God who is alive with Christ. I know it’s easy to struggle with your identity. I know it’s easy to feel hopeless and helpless in life. This is who you are: A child of God who is alive with Christ.
If we were to think about these truths from God’s Word more often, wouldn’t we worry less? Wouldn’t we find peace more? Wouldn’t life seem less dark? Wouldn’t the future fill us with more hope?
So here’s the Bible’s encouragement: “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above…. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Life in this world is real and difficult, but it’s not the only thing that’s real. So is Jesus. So is heaven. So are God’s promises. Since you are alive with Christ, set your hearts on things above.
Dear Jesus, you have done so much for me. Thank you! Convince me of what your grace means for me and for my future. Turn my eyes from this dark world. Help me set my heart on things above. Amen.
Comments