Focus on Heaven, Not the Fallen World (Colossians 3:1-4, and Matthew 7:21)

Good morning, my brothers and sisters in Christ. The good thing about Lent is that it's time for us all to work on ourselves, and that's what fasting is for and is all about. Fasting helps with spiritual growth and builds resilience during times of Struggle and great temptations.

Colossians 3:1-4(NKJV)

If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. 2 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.

Each day, I work on focusing my mind on the things above and less on the things here on earth. As Paul says in v. 3, "For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God." Each day is a struggle because good and evil will always be at arms with one another, so remember to be resilient in your faith and walk with Christ. And remember, if we truly walk with God, then we are that new creation, and the old has indeed passed away.

Here in Colossians, we see Paul encouraging all believers to focus their minds and hearts on heavenly things rather than those silly earthly matters. Paul is urging the spiritual reality of being united with Christ in His death and resurrection, and Paul is encouraging believers to live out this new life by seeking after the things of God. Paul also reminds us that our true identity and ultimate destiny are found in Christ, and we will share in His glory when He returns.

Today's Struggle: I struggle with those who claim to walk with Christ but treat their neighbors and colleagues worse than their animals. 

Matthew 7:21(NKJV)

  "Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.

This verse is my closing, and I like how it emphasizes that a mere verbal acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord is not enough; true faith is demonstrated through actions and obedience to God's will.

In Christ, love Jared W. Campbell