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Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart
Colossians 3:1 encourages us to elevate our focus, saying, “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God”.
This verse directs our attention to the heavenly realm, urging us to pursue the eternal and divine, where Christ reigns with ultimate authority.
By seeking the things above, we are called to live with a heavenly mindset, aligning our thoughts and actions with God’s eternal purposes rather than the transient concerns of this world.
The imagery in Revelation 4:1-2 offers a vivid illustration of this heavenly perspective.
John is invited to witness the throne room of God, a place of immense activity and worship.
Angels sing praises, elders cast their crowns, and divine plans are revealed and executed.
This scene underscores the reality that God’s throne is the center of the universe’s administration, where His sovereign will is carried out above all earthly powers and principalities.
In practical terms, setting our minds on things above means intentionally shifting our focus from earthly distractions to God’s eternal truths.
It involves seeking His wisdom in our daily lives, as James 1:5 encourages us to ask for wisdom, promising that God will give it generously.
This heavenly mindset can transform our approach to life’s challenges, decisions, and relationships.
For example, in making significant life decisions, whether related to career, relationships, or personal growth, we are encouraged to seek God’s guidance through prayer and Scripture.
By doing so, we align our choices with His divine will, reflecting the wisdom and peace that come from above.
This approach can be seen in Proverbs 3:5-6, which instructs us to trust in the Lord with all our heart and not rely on our understanding, promising that He will direct our paths.
Moreover, setting our minds on things above helps us to cultivate a Christ-like character.
Colossians 3:12-14 advises us to clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, and above all, to put on love, which binds all virtues together in perfect unity.
These attributes reflect the nature of Christ and are a direct result of focusing on heavenly things.
In our daily interactions, this heavenly mindset can manifest in acts of kindness and love towards others.
For instance, when faced with conflict, we are reminded to respond with grace and forgiveness, just as Christ forgave us (Ephesians 4:32).
This not only resolves disputes but also reflects the kingdom values we are called to embody.
Ultimately, by setting our minds on things above, we participate in God’s redemptive work on earth.
We become conduits of His love and grace, pointing others to the hope and eternal life found in Christ.
This perspective brings purpose and direction to our lives, reminding us that we are part of a grand, divine narrative that culminates in the New Jerusalem, where we will dwell with God for eternity.
In summary, Colossians 3:1 calls us to seek the things above, aligning our lives with the eternal purposes of God.
By focusing on His throne and the activity around it, we gain wisdom, direction, and a deeper understanding of His will.
This heavenly mindset transforms our daily lives, guiding our decisions, shaping our character, and enabling us to participate in God’s redemptive plan for the world.
Until Tomorrow
With A Shepherd’s Love,
Pastor Jackson
WEDNESDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS
Steve Michaels
Tom Graham
Gail Sparks
Ellen Boyd
Friend of Linda Hodge
Joy Gilbert
Amy Garner’s Mom & Dad
Coly/Connor – Allison’s G’sons
Dan Haines
Darlene Wiggins
David Burnette
Denise Hulsey – Jordan’s G’mother
Donnie Butler’s Dad
Doris Loyd
Dr. and Mrs. Davis
Ed Mays
Eric Magnusson’s Mother
Eric Ward
Faith Burnette
Freddie May’s Mom
George & Linda Alexander
James Burnette
Joanie/Jeanie Mom
Jodi Bateman
Joe Shelnutt
John McClain’s Mother
June Cronan’s Sister
Kailey Bateman
Kathryn Raines
Kim McClain’s Mother
Krista Hilscher
Larry Barker
Lillanna Magnusson’s Mom
Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah
Linda Hodges’ Sister
Lonzo Christin
Lori Blount’s Mother
Marynell Ford
Maureen Brown
Michael Stanley
Nora Allison
Pastor Driskell
Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA
Sarah Parker
Scott Lanier
Tom Graham (Sandra’s Husband)
Tom Witcher