As born-again Christians, we are called to be spiritually minded, setting our focus not on the fleeting things of this world but on the eternal things above. Scripture clearly directs us in this mindset, reminding us that our true citizenship and inheritance are not of this earth but in heaven.
Colossians 3:1-2 sets the foundation for this study:
“If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.”
This is a command, not a suggestion. To set our minds on things above means to actively choose a heavenly perspective, aligning our thoughts and desires with God’s truth. The believer’s new identity in Christ demands a shift in focus.
The Carnal Mind vs. The Spiritual Mind
Paul contrasts the carnal mind with the spiritual mind:
Romans 8:5-6:
“For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.”
The carnal mind is consumed with earthly concerns—pleasures, worries, ambitions, and self-gratification. It ultimately leads to death. However, the spiritually minded person experiences life and peace because their mind is governed by the truth and presence of God.
Philippians 3:18-20 reinforces this idea:
“For many walk… whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame—who set their mind on earthly things. For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.”
The spiritually minded understand that they are merely sojourners here, awaiting their true home in heaven. This mindset brings clarity to life’s priorities and trials.
Transformation Through Renewing the Mind
To set our minds on things above requires a transformation, a renewal of the mind.
Romans 12:2 commands:
“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”
This renewal happens as we immerse ourselves in the Word of God, prayer, and fellowship with the Holy Spirit. Our thoughts become aligned with His thoughts, our desires with His desires.
Isaiah 26:3 promises peace for the spiritually minded:
“You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.”
The peace of God is directly tied to where our mind is fixed—on Him.
Walking by Faith, Not by Sight
2 Corinthians 4:18 shifts our perspective:
“While we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.”
Faith requires us to focus on the unseen promises of God, not the visible challenges of this life. This mindset helps us persevere through trials with hope.
Hebrews 12:2 gives us the ultimate example:
“Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
Christ Himself endured suffering because His focus was on the joy set before Him—the redemption of mankind and His return to glory.
Practical Ways to Set Your Mind on Things Above
Meditate on the Word: Psalm 1:2: “But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night.”
Prayer and Communion with God: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks.”
Guard Your Thoughts: 2 Corinthians 10:5: “Bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.”
Think on What is Pure: Philippians 4:8: “Whatever things are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, of good report…meditate on these things.”
My Final Thoughts
To set our minds on things above is not simply a spiritual suggestion but a command for every born-again believer. It requires daily surrender, intentional focus, and a desire to live with eternity in view. The spiritually minded believer will experience peace, joy, and clarity as they walk in the Spirit.
Ask yourself: Are your thoughts consumed with the temporary or the eternal? True spiritual growth begins when we fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. Stay anchored in His Word, live in fellowship with the Holy Spirit, and keep your heart set on the promises of heaven.
