How to set your mind on things above
October 16, 2023
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Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. -Colossians 3:2
Quick: Name some verses that remind us to keep our minds focused on God and not the problems or the temporary pleasures of this world.
Did Colossians 3:2, Isaiah 26:3, or Philippians 4:8 make your list? What others?
While the idea of focusing on Him (instead of our messy world) sounds great in theory, the number of distractions we face each day is intense! So, how do we keep our busy schedules and stay connected to Him? Meredith, a fellow World Prayer Team member, shares her strategy:
“Each morning I get up and read the World Prayer Team email. They are often written by someone living in a very poor area of the world, and yet they are so very encouraging and uplifting. I am always reminded of God’s greater purpose. As I pray for them, I pray for His purpose in my life that day, too.
“Then on my way to work I listen to Dr. McGee. This sets me up for my day. As I take a quick coffee break at work, sit in line to pick up my kids from school, make dinner, or brush my teeth, I try and reflect on what I learned. If I can, I go back and reread the passage before bed (but that doesn’t always happen). As I write this, it seems like a lot, but it’s often just a moment here and there. The best part is, this quick and easy routine has yielded big results. I find I am less anxious, less rushed, and less easily irritated over small matters.”
Thank God for His Word that tells us how we can live for His glory. Like Meredith, ask Him to help all of us on the Bible Bus find minutes (or even seconds) during the day when we can refocus our minds and hearts on Him. As we study together, ask Him to write His Word on our hearts (Jeremiah 31:33), so we can put Him first and focus on what really matters (Colossians 3:2).
“The journey isn’t always what we expect, but God always provides.” Hear more of what this listener in Mexico has to say tomorrow as we continue to pray our way through North America.