Therefore, if you have been raised with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Keep thinking about things above, not things on the earth.
Into the Text
In the New Testament, we are repeatedly urged to focus all our attention on the eternal things (Hebrews 12:2; Philippians 3:14). Paul writes here in Colossians, “keep seeking what is above.”
Above is where heaven is, where our eternal future is, and where God’s kingdom is. Since Jesus is seated at God’s right hand of power, we can believe that He is totally in control over everything that happens in this world and our lives. Even when politicians are making a mess, when wars and disasters are not ending, or when we are hurting because of painful circumstances, He is in control.
Whatever we spend our time thinking about will dominate our emotions and actions. When we focus our attention on things below, we will quickly be sucked into thinking that this world is what really matters. When we choose to spend a lot of time thinking about the latest news, scrolling through social media, focusing on other people or even ourselves, we will end up over-burdened and anxious.
Instead, as Christians, we should invest much time thinking about the things that really matter. We know that this life is fleetingly short. Any earthly blessings we may enjoy here can leave as quickly as they came. We should be careful not to make idols of things like our possessions, looks, health, work, or relationships.
Let’s keep on seeking the things above. One way we can do this is by meditating on the Bible. I’m convinced our days would look very different if we didn’t pick up our phones every time we had a free minute but, instead, lifted our eyes to heaven in prayer and praise. Let’s make it the main business of our lives to focus our attention on Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me not get so easily distracted but learn what it means to seek the things above. Amen.