Set Your Minds on Things Above, Not on Earthly Things”

Colossians 3:1–2 (NIV):

“Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.
Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”

This is not a passive suggestion it is an active pursuit. We are called to prioritize the Kingdom of God in every aspect of our lives.

Seek the Kingdom Like a Hidden Treasure

Just as one searches diligently for treasure or precious metals, we are commanded to pursue divine wisdom with that same intensity. Proverbs 2:3–5 (NIV) says:

“Indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding,
and if you look for it as for silver
and search for it as for hidden treasure,
then you will understand the fear of the Lord
and find the knowledge of God.”

Let your daily pursuit be the eternal things not status, wealth, or fleeting pleasures.

Don’t Let Earthly Things Distract You from Eternal Life

The temporary pleasures and trials of this world can become stumbling blocks if we let them. But as Jesus warned in Matthew 16:26 (NIV):

“What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?”

Whether you’re rich or poor, healthy or sick, God calls everyone to focus on eternity.

Examples from Scripture: Earthly Status Is No Excuse

1. Solomon – A Rich Man Focused on God

Though King Solomon was one of the wealthiest men to ever live, he deeply contemplated divine wisdom. In Ecclesiastes 12:13 (NIV), he concludes:

“Now all has been heard;
here is the conclusion of the matter:
Fear God and keep his commandments,
for this is the duty of all mankind.”

Solomon reminds us that material wealth is meaningless apart from a relationship with God.

2. Daniel – A Leader Who Prayed Without Ceasing

Daniel held a high political office in Babylon, yet he faithfully prayed three times a day. Daniel 6:10 (NIV):

“Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before.”

Even at great personal risk, Daniel prioritized his relationship with God above his position.

3. Lazarus – A Poor Man with Heavenly Riches

In Jesus’ parable (Luke 16:19–31), Lazarus was a poor man who had nothing in this life but gained everything in eternity. Luke 16:25 (NIV):

“But Abraham replied, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony.’”

Lazarus did not let poverty separate him from God he lived as a spiritual pilgrim.

4. The Suffering Saints – Trials Did Not Derail Their Faith

Many of God’s faithful have endured severe trials illness, persecution, or deep personal loss but kept their minds fixed on Heaven. As Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 4:17–18 (NIV):

“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”

Final Reflection

So what about you?
Are you seeking the things above? Are your thoughts centered on Christ and His Kingdom? No matter your circumstances wealthy or poor, healthy or sick nothing in this world is worth losing your soul over.

Philippians 3:20 (NIV) reminds us: