Set Your Mind on Things Above: Guide to Heavenly Thinking

Set Your Mind on Things Above: A Guide to Heavenly Thinking

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the demands of life? Do you struggle to find peace amidst the chaos of your daily routine? If so, you are not alone. In a world filled with distractions and difficulties, it can be easy to lose sight of what truly matters. However, as Christians, we have a source of hope that transcends all of life's challenges: the promise of eternal life with Christ in heaven.

Colossians 3:1-2 says, "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." In other words, as followers of Christ, we are called to focus our attention on eternal realities rather than temporal concerns. By doing so, we can experience true freedom, joy, and peace in the midst of life's trials.

What is Heavenly Thinking?

Heavenly thinking is the practice of setting our minds on eternal truths and realities. It involves recognizing that this life is temporary and that our ultimate home is in heaven with Christ. When we think about heaven, we remind ourselves of the hope that we have in Christ and the promises that God has made to us. This, in turn, helps us to live with a greater sense of purpose and meaning in our daily lives.

Heavenly thinking also involves recognizing the ways in which God is at work in our lives and in the world around us. It means looking beyond our circumstances and trusting that God is sovereign over all things. When we focus on the goodness and faithfulness of God, we are better able to navigate life's challenges with grace and perseverance.

Why is Heavenly Thinking Important?

Heavenly thinking is important for several reasons. First, it reminds us of our ultimate destination. As Christians, we believe that our time on earth is temporary and that our true home is in heaven with Christ. By focusing on heavenly realities, we remind ourselves of the hope that we have in Christ and the promise of eternal life that awaits us.

Second, heavenly thinking helps us to prioritize our lives. When we set our minds on eternal things, we are better able to discern what is truly important and what is not. This, in turn, helps us to make wise decisions about how we spend our time, energy, and resources.

Third, heavenly thinking helps us to experience greater peace and joy in the midst of life's challenges. By trusting in God's sovereignty and focusing on his goodness, we can find comfort and strength even in the most difficult of circumstances.

How Can We Cultivate Heavenly Thinking?

Cultivating heavenly thinking is a lifelong process that requires intentionality and discipline. Here are a few practical steps that we can take:

1. Spend Time in God's Word

The Bible is the primary way that God speaks to us. By spending time in his Word, we can learn more about his character, his promises, and his plan for our lives. As we study the Bible, we can ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to us the eternal truths that we need to focus on.

Some helpful passages to meditate on include:

• John 14:1-3


• 1 Corinthians 15:50-58


• 2 Corinthians 4:16-18


• Philippians 3:20-21


• Revelation 21:1-7

2. Pray for Heavenly Perspective

Prayer is a powerful tool for cultivating heavenly thinking. When we pray, we can ask God to help us see life from his perspective and to focus on eternal realities rather than temporal concerns. We can also ask him to give us the strength and wisdom we need to navigate life's challenges with grace and perseverance.

3. Surround Yourself with Like-Minded Believers

Iron sharpens iron, and we are strengthened when we surround ourselves with other believers who share our desire to cultivate heavenly thinking. By spending time with others who are focused on eternal realities, we can encourage and support one another in our walk with Christ.

4. Practice Gratitude

Gratitude is a powerful antidote to anxiety and worry. By cultivating a spirit of gratitude, we can focus on the ways in which God has blessed us and provided for us. This, in turn, helps us to trust in his goodness and faithfulness even in the midst of life's challenges.

5. Focus on Christ

Ultimately, heavenly thinking is about focusing on Christ. As Colossians 3:1-2 reminds us, we are to set our hearts and minds on things above, where Christ is. Our minds are most full of heaven when they are most full of Christ. By keeping our eyes fixed on him, we can experience the peace, joy, and hope that come from knowing and loving him.

Conclusion

Heavenly thinking is not just a nice idea; it is a vital part of our walk with Christ. By setting our minds on eternal things, we can experience true freedom, joy, and peace in the midst of life's trials. As we cultivate heavenly thinking, we are reminded of the hope that we have in Christ and the promise of eternal life that awaits us. So let us set our minds on things above, not on earthly things, and trust in the goodness and faithfulness of our heavenly Father.