C.S. Lewis, in “Mere Christianity,” wrote “If you read
history you will find that the Christians who did the most for the present
world were just those who thought most of the next. It is since Christians have
largely ceased to think of the other world that they have become so ineffective
in this.” And he was quite right when our focus here it is on things which
will pass and ultimately do not matter or on managing and surviving with varying
expectations of enjoyment and self-satisfaction. But the reality is, that a wholly
here focus is living in denial of an other than here reality. It is living as
if God does not exist or as if He does not care to involve Himself in the
affairs of man.
The Bible says, “Set your mind on the things above, not on
the things that are on earth.” (Colossians 3:2, NASB95) God has both declared
and demonstrated His love for man and His desire to have a relationship with
His creation. He sent His Son in the form of man in order to draw man back to
Himself through the forgiveness of his sins and the gift of eternal life. And
He has proven His desire to be continually present with His creation by sealing
and indwelling every believer with His Holy Spirit. This is our God who engages
Himself in our lives and to whom we are to continually look in worship and for
guidance.
And He has left us here for a season and a purpose until
such time that we enter His presence and enjoy Him fully forever. During this
season He has called us to trust Him in all things, and in order to do this we
have to look to Him in all things. Looking to Him in all things requires that
we have hearts and minds that are heavenly minded (God-directed) in order that
He might use us to accomplish His purposes here on earth. To do otherwise is
like trying to build a complex construction without any instructions, and to be
quite honest, even missing the most critical parts.
Living with our eyes set on Christ strengthens us for the
stuff here which can so easily prove discouraging and keeps us from that which
can become so easily wasted. Living with our trust in God, growing out of our getting
to know Him more and more, both keeps our hope for the things above fresh and
equips us for that which He has here below. So, let’s turn that phrase upside
down by growing in our heavenly mindedness as we watch what good God does here
on earth.
“Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep
seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set
your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. For you
have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” (Colossians 3:1–3,
NASB95)
“So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved,
put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience;
bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint
against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all
these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. Let the peace of
Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be
thankful. Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom
teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs,
singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Whatever you do in word or
deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God
the Father.” (Colossians 3:12–17, NASB95)
Today in “Jesus Calling” by Sarah Young (9/24)
Live first and foremost in My Presence. Gradually you will
become more aware of Me than of people and places around you. This awareness
will not detract from your relationships with others. Instead, it will increase
your ability to give love and encouragement to them. My Peace will permeate
your words and demeanor. You will be active in the world, yet one step removed
from it. You will not be easily shaken, because My enveloping Presence buffers
the blow of problems.
This is the path I have set before you. As you follow it
wholeheartedly, you experience abundant Life and Peace.
“How blessed are the people who know the joyful sound! O Lord, they walk in the light of Your
countenance. In Your name they rejoice all the day, and by Your righteousness
they are exalted.” (Psalm 89:15–16, NASB95)
“I have set the Lord continually before me; because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.” (Psalm 16:8, NASB95)
“I have set the Lord continually before me; because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.” (Psalm 16:8, NASB95)
“Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord;” (2 Peter 1:2, NASB95)
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