The new life we receive in Jesus changes the center of our priorities. We remain engaged with present responsibilities while learning to care for them without allowing temporary things to take the place of our hope in Christ.
Devotional
In Colossians 3:1-4, Paul speaks to those who have been raised with Christ and urges them to seek the things above. He also says that their life is hidden with Christ in God.
This truth changes the way we understand the present. Our families still need care. Work still requires responsibility. Bills, decisions, and commitments remain in front of us. Faith does not remove us from these duties.
Christ changes the place each thing holds within us. Money is no longer our deepest source of security. Recognition loses some of the power it once had. The desire to control everything begins to be examined in light of the hope we have in Jesus.
Paul is not teaching the church to escape reality. He is reminding them where their true life is found. What we have received in Christ cannot be measured by today’s circumstances.
Pay attention to what fills your thoughts when you are alone. Your anxiety may be revealing where you look for security. Your desires may be guiding decisions you need to place before the Lord.
Turn your heart back to Christ. Your life is kept in Him, even when the present feels unstable.
Prayer
Lord, direct my heart toward what has lasting value before You. Help me care for my present responsibilities without forgetting that my true hope is found in Christ. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Bible reference
1 ¶ If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.
4 When Christ, [who is] our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.
