“Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth.” Colossians 3:2
Why do so few Christians have an eternal mindset? Because we think about this world way too much. We fear that something will be taken away rather than look forward to what we’ll gain. But when we follow Jesus closely, we begin to live in anticipation of where we’re going rather than in anxiety of what we’re leaving. We begin to live each day with eternity in mind.
Many of the Old Testament saints had an overwhelming sense of eternity. Hebrews 11 is filled with people of great faith who sought to live on Earth as they would in Heaven. And the first century church shook the world because they lived in anticipation of a coming Savior and impending judgment. They didn’t fear these events but desired them as an exit from this world into the world to come.
Having this kind of eternal perspective cultivates a desire to please God. It causes us to consider daily life and worship from His point of view. Consequently, we focus on doing God’s work, God’s way. That’s why Paul connected our mindset with what we seek. “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).
But living with an eternal mindset affects more than our outward actions. It changes what we pursue inwardly, as well. “We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him just as He is. And everyone who has this hope fixed on Him purifies himself, just as He is pure” (1 John 3:2–3). In other words, we ought to live ready to go!
Do you think more about really living in the moment, or living to make your moments really count? Developing an eternal mindset starts by living in anticipation of the place you’re going and the Person you’ll finally see. Determine to pursue a pure and holy life so you won’t be ashamed when you see Jesus face-to-face. Live today with eternity in mind!
