Our passage is Colossians 3:1-2 “If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth” (ESV). Notice that it says that we have been raised with Christ, implying that part of us is in heaven with Christ now (“we are seated with him in the heavenly places,” Eph. 2:6). Since that is true our minds should be focused on Christ’s location: heaven. In fact, we are to seek heavenly things, not just be aware of them.
What heavenly things should we seek and set our minds on? Most importantly, the virtues of God. We are to seek the fruits of the Spirit. And since we are citizens of the Heavenly Jerusalem, we should seek to live in accord with that culture. We should seek to live in harmony and love with our brothers and sisters in the Lord. We should also seek heavenly treasure and rewards, for we should be laying up treasure in heaven. We are also to seek heavenly wisdom, communicated in Scripture. God also wants to channel his heavenly power through us; we can seek this out. In general, we are to learn to have a heavenly mindset and perspective on all we do. This is easy to say, but not so easy to do; it takes years.
Here is a meditation on Colossians 3:1-2 to help you seek and set your mind on things above.
- Absorb Scripture. Read the passage slowly. Imagine heaven and God’s throne as best you can then imagine yourself sitting next to Jesus (Eph. 2:6) who is at the right hand of God. Take several minutes to absorb this scene so that it becomes part of your current reality. What does it look like, feel like, sound like? What thoughts come to you? How does this affect your love for God?
- Truth Commitment. Invite God to reveal your heart then ask yourself: How much do I believe Christ is seated above as king? How much do I believe that I was raised up with Christ? How much do I believe that I can set my mind on things above? If I have unbelief: What is the root of my unbelief or lack in this area? How do I deal with that root issue?
- My Lifestyle. Invite God to reveal your heart then ask yourself: How much am I seeking and setting my mind on things above? How is Jesus a model for me to follow in this area? What other implications does this passage have for how I live my life? What does the context of the passage teach me about living accordingly? What are my barriers to living according to this passage, including any root issues? How do I deal with them?
- Virtue & Action Commitment. To the extent that you can, follow through by telling God that you are fully committed to seeking and setting your mind on things above. Determine the next step in this commitment then take it as soon as possible. Remember your threefold living power supply.
- Reception (Contemplation). Ask God to show you anything that you have not fully embraced as well as anything else he desires to show you, or ask Jesus a question about this topic. Sit with a quiet and open heart for at least 60 seconds. If you receive an impression, then apply discernment and cooperate accordingly.
