HEART, MIND, AND IDENTITY RECALIBRATION

"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. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory."  (Colossians 3:1-4 NIV)

Paul’s words are a gentle but firm recalibration. He reminds us that resurrection isn’t just a future hope -- it’s a present reality. We’ve been raised with Christ. That means our spiritual GPS has been reset. Our affections, ambitions, and attention are no longer tethered to the dust of this world but drawn upward to the throne where Christ reigns.

But this isn’t escapism. It’s engagement with eternity in the now. To “set your hearts on things above” is to let heaven’s values shape earthly choices. It’s choosing grace over grudges, compassion over judgment, truth over convenience, and service over self.

Paul doesn’t say “glance” at things above. He says “set” -- as in fix, anchor, dwell. Our minds and hearts are to be intentionally directed toward the reality of Christ’s rule and our identity in Him. Why? Because our true life is hidden in Him. Not lost. Not forgotten. Hidden -- secure, protected, and waiting to be revealed in glory.

HEART CHECK: What has captured your heart lately? Is it something eternal or something fleeting?

MIND SHIFT: What thoughts dominate your day? Are they rooted in fear, comparison, or control -- or in the peace and promise of Christ?

IDENTITY REMINDER: You are not defined by your past, your performance, your politics, or your possessions. You are hidden in Christ. Let that truth shape how you walk through each day. 

-- SOUND BITES Ministry™, compiled from a variety of sources 

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