No matter the number of times a portion of Scripture has been read and is familiar, it will speak to our hearts over and over.
As believers, we are engaged in the lifelong process of sanctification, the journey of becoming more like Jesus. This process is not completed by us and will only be completed when God calls us home.
The wonder of it all is that we are becoming more like Christ in our daily lives through the power of the Holy Spirit, which is at work in us every single day. This doesn’t mean, however, we have no part in this change though.
“Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth.” (Colossians 3:1-2, NASB)
Here Paul tells us clearly what our part is in the process:
- “keep seeking the things above”
- “set your mind on things above”
These two directives a distinct connection:
We will seek whatever we set our minds on.
This brought the question: Where am I setting my mind each day?
In his writings, Paul compared our journey in life to a race.
“Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith …” (Hebrews 12:1-2, NASB)
Growing by God’s grace will change where and how we run.
While our growth in Jesus is all by God’s grace, we are again reminded of our active part in this process. We are to:
- lay aside anything that holds us back
- run our race with endurance
- fix our eyes on Jesus
Sheep – they are a lot of work. Both in ranching and spiritually. Yet our Shepherd is constantly on duty. In her post, You alone HERE, Paris Renae beautiful and comforting thoughts on our constant Companion.
Come, sit a spell. Bring your coffee, your posts, and your thoughts. If you link up, kindly visit those who have drawn up a seat around you.
Image by Rick Barker from Pixabay
Race! Grace! Change! Your post is a beautiful reminder of the power found in scripture! This journey is lifelong and Paul’s directives (and your message) have me thinking in a new way about my active role in the process… keep seeking and set my mind, always on things above! What a great way to begin my Wednesday!
Such an important focus for all of us Joanne looking & seeking things above, especially in a world that seems to have turned upside down in such quick time.
Blessings, Jennifer
It’s a relief to know that God is in charge of our growth in Him. But it’s sobering to realize we have responsibilities as well. It’s kind of like gardening: only God can make something grow, but He expects us to plant, water, and weed.
When I keep my eyes on Him, I know my race is not finished – and I know I cannot give up – I cannot settle like Abraham’s father did on sweet corner of the promise. I am glad God’s got the plan, the solutions – I just need to keep running the race and keep my eyes on Him.
Yes, we are forever in process while here on earth. Praise God that someday we will stand before Him redeemed and whole!
Amen Joanne. So wonderfully spoken. Thanks so much for hosting and warm hospitality each week.
xo
It’s a moment-by-moment choice to set our minds in the right place!
“Where am I setting my mind each day?” Great question.