Chiamaka NwekeBible Verse: Colossians 3:2
Focus: Setting our minds on heavenly values rather than temporary earthly concerns.
We live in a world that demands our immediate attention. The urgent cries of deadlines, bills, relationships, and daily responsibilities compete for our focus, often drowning out the quiet whisper of eternity. Our culture is obsessed with the here and now—instant gratification, material accumulation, social validation, and the relentless pursuit of comfort. Yet, beneath the surface of our busy lives, a deep-seated restlessness persists. We sense that there must be more to life than the endless cycle of work, consumption, and entertainment. We are, as C.S. Lewis famously observed, “like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.”
The Apostle Paul addresses this fundamental human predicament in his letter to the Colossians. He writes, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2). This verse is not a call to escape from reality or to become so heavenly-minded that we are of no earthly good. Rather, it is an invitation to adopt an eternal perspective—a mindset that prioritizes heavenly values over temporary, earthly concerns. It is the key to unlocking a life of purpose, peace, and lasting significance.
An eternal perspective fundamentally reshapes how we view our lives. It transforms our priorities, influences our decisions, and redefines our understanding of success and happiness. When we fix our eyes on the eternal, the fleeting nature of our present struggles comes into focus, and we gain the strength and wisdom to navigate life’s challenges with hope and resilience. This article explores the biblical foundation of living with an eternal perspective, examines the transformative power of heavenly-mindedness, and provides practical guidance for cultivating this mindset in our daily lives. We will discover that setting our minds on things above is not merely a spiritual discipline but the very key to experiencing the abundant life that Christ promised.
Understanding the Context of Colossians 3:2
To fully grasp the weight of Paul’s exhortation, we must understand its context within the letter to the Colossians. The church in Colossae was facing a serious threat from false teachers who were promoting a syncretistic philosophy that mixed Jewish legalism, Greek mysticism, and ascetic practices. These teachers argued that faith in Christ alone was insufficient for salvation. They insisted that believers needed to observe strict dietary laws, honor angels, and practice severe self-denial to achieve spiritual fullness.
Paul’s response is a powerful declaration of the sufficiency and supremacy of Christ. He asserts that in Christ “all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form” (Colossians 2:9) and that believers have been “given fullness in Christ” (Colossians 2:10). Having established the theological foundation of Christ’s preeminence, Paul moves to practical application in chapter 3. Since believers have died with Christ to the elemental spiritual forces of this world (Colossians 2:20), they are to live in a manner consistent with their new identity.
The opening verses of Colossians 3 set the stage: “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).
Paul uses the language of resurrection and ascension to describe the believer’s position in Christ. We have been raised with Christ, and our true life is “hidden with Christ in God.” This means that our ultimate identity and destiny are not tied to this temporal world; they are securely anchored in the heavenly realm. Therefore, our minds and hearts should be oriented toward that eternal reality.
The Greek word translated as “set your minds” is phroneite, which implies more than casual consideration. It means to have a mindset, a disposition, or a habitual way of thinking. It is the deliberate, ongoing practice of focusing our thoughts, affections, and values on heavenly realities. This is not a one-time decision but a continuous, intentional effort to align our perspective with God’s eternal purposes.
The Danger of Earthly-Mindedness
Before we explore the benefits of an eternal perspective, it is crucial to understand the dangers of being exclusively focused on earthly things. Paul warns that setting our minds on earthly things leads to a life that is ultimately empty and destructive.
1. Earthly-Mindedness Distorts Our Priorities:
When we are consumed with earthly concerns, our priorities become skewed. We prioritize the temporary over the eternal, the seen over the unseen, and the urgent over the important. We may spend countless hours pursuing career advancement, financial security, or social status, while neglecting our relationship with God, our families, and our spiritual growth. Jesus addressed this danger in the Parable of the Sower, where the seed that fell among thorns was choked by “the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth” (Matthew 13:22). The pursuit of earthly things can strangle the life of the Spirit within us.
2. Earthly-Mindedness Leads to Anxiety:
Focusing solely on earthly concerns breeds anxiety and fear. We worry about our health, our finances, our children, and our future. Jesus addressed this tendency, asking, “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life?” (Matthew 6:27). He points us to the birds of the air and the lilies of the field, which are cared for by the Father. When we are consumed with earthly needs, we lose sight of God’s provision and become enslaved to worry. An eternal perspective, on the other hand, frees us from anxiety by reminding us that our Father knows what we need and is faithful to provide.
3. Earthly-Mindedness Fosters Dissatisfaction:
The pursuit of earthly things is a treadmill that never stops. The more we acquire, the more we want. Solomon, the wisest and wealthiest man of his time, described the futility of this pursuit in the book of Ecclesiastes. He wrote, “Everything is meaningless, completely meaningless! What do people get for all their hard work under the sun?” (Ecclesiastes 1:2-3). He had tasted every pleasure, accumulated every treasure, and achieved every ambition, yet he found it all to be “chasing after the wind” (Ecclesiastes 2:11). Earthly-mindedness leaves us perpetually dissatisfied because our souls were created for something far greater than the finite pleasures of this world.
4. Earthly-Mindedness Leads to Spiritual Apathy:
When our minds are consumed with earthly things, our spiritual lives suffer. We become spiritually lazy, neglecting prayer, Bible reading, and fellowship with other believers. The cares of the world dull our spiritual senses and make us indifferent to the things of God. Jesus warned that the love of many will grow cold as wickedness increases (Matthew 24:12). This coldness is often a result of allowing earthly concerns to crowd out our love for God.
The Transformative Power of an Eternal Perspective
In stark contrast to the dangers of earthly-mindedness, living with an eternal perspective brings profound transformation to our lives. It shapes our character, influences our decisions, and fills us with hope and purpose.
1. It Provides Stability in a Changing World:
The world is constantly changing—economies collapse, governments fall, health fails, relationships end. In the midst of this instability, an eternal perspective provides an unshakable foundation. When our hope is anchored in the unchanging God and the eternal realities of His Kingdom, we are not easily shaken by the vicissitudes of life. The writer of Hebrews describes this as having a “kingdom that cannot be shaken” (Hebrews 12:28). We can face the storms of life with confidence, knowing that our ultimate destiny is secure in Christ.
2. It Offers Meaning and Purpose:
An eternal perspective infuses every aspect of our lives with meaning. It reminds us that our daily work, our relationships, and our struggles have eternal significance. When we view our lives through the lens of eternity, even the most mundane tasks become acts of worship. We are not just earning a paycheck; we are participating in God’s redemptive plan. We are not just raising children; we are nurturing future citizens of the Kingdom. The Apostle Paul urges, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward” (Colossians 3:23-24). This perspective transforms drudgery into devotion and discouragement into determination.
3. It Fosters a Heart of Generosity:
When we recognize that everything we have ultimately belongs to God and that our treasures on earth are temporary, we are freed to be generous. We no longer cling to our possessions as if they define our identity or secure our future. We understand that we are stewards, not owners, and that our true treasure is in heaven. Jesus taught, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven… For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:19-21). An eternal perspective loosens our grip on material possessions and opens our hands to share with others.
4. It Promotes Humility:
An eternal perspective keeps us humble. When we contemplate the majesty of God, the vastness of the universe, and the brevity of our lives, our pride is deflated. We realize that we are small and dependent creatures, not the center of the universe. The prophet Isaiah captured this humility when he beheld the Lord “high and exalted, seated on a throne” (Isaiah 6:1). His immediate response was, “Woe to me! I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips” (Isaiah 6:5). A proper view of God leads to a proper view of ourselves—humble, repentant, and reliant on His grace.
5. It Brings Peace in the Midst of Trials:
When we view our trials from an eternal perspective, we find peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7). We understand that our present sufferings are “not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18). We realize that God is using our difficulties to refine our character and prepare us for eternity. James encourages us to “consider it pure joy” when we face trials, knowing that the testing of our faith produces perseverance (James 1:2-3). An eternal perspective gives us the strength to endure hardship with joy, knowing that God is at work in and through our suffering.
Biblical Examples of Living with Eternal Perspective
The Scriptures are filled with individuals who embodied an eternal perspective. Their lives serve as powerful examples of how setting our minds on things above can transform our actions and attitudes.
Moses: Choosing Eternal Value Over Earthly Treasure
Moses is a striking example of someone who lived with an eternal perspective. As the adopted son of Pharaoh’s daughter, he had access to all the wealth, power, and prestige that Egypt could offer. Yet, the writer of Hebrews tells us, “By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward” (Hebrews 11:24-26).
Moses made a deliberate choice. He valued the eternal reward of being identified with God’s people over the temporary pleasures of Egypt. He understood that the treasures of this world are fleeting, but the reward of faith is eternal. His decision to suffer with the people of God rather than enjoy the comforts of the palace was rooted in an eternal perspective. He was looking ahead to the ultimate reward—the inheritance that awaits all who are faithful to God.
Paul: Pressing Toward the Goal
The Apostle Paul is perhaps the most prominent example of a man consumed by an eternal perspective. After his dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus, Paul dedicated his life to spreading the gospel, enduring immense suffering in the process. He was beaten, imprisoned, shipwrecked, and ultimately martyred for his faith. Yet, he never wavered in his commitment.
In his letter to the Philippians, Paul declares, “I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ” (Philippians 3:8). Paul viewed his earthly achievements, his religious credentials, and his material possessions as “garbage” compared to the eternal value of knowing Christ. His eyes were fixed on the prize—the “heavenly prize for which God is calling me upward in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14). This eternal perspective enabled him to endure hardship, embrace sacrifice, and finish the race with joy.
The Apostles: Rejoicing in Suffering
In the book of Acts, we see the early apostles embodying an eternal perspective in the face of persecution. When they were arrested, beaten, and ordered to stop preaching in the name of Jesus, they did not despair. Instead, “The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name” (Acts 5:41).
Their joy in suffering was a direct result of their eternal perspective. They understood that persecution was not a sign of defeat but a privilege—a mark of identification with Christ. They did not view their suffering as meaningless; they saw it as an opportunity to share in the sufferings of their Lord and to advance the gospel. Their hearts were set on things above, and this gave them courage and joy in the midst of opposition.
The Heroes of Faith in Hebrews 11
Hebrews 11, often called the “Hall of Faith,” recounts the stories of numerous Old Testament figures who lived by faith, looking forward to the fulfillment of God’s promises. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob lived as “foreigners and strangers” on earth, “looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God” (Hebrews 11:10). They did not possess the Promised Land in their lifetimes; they saw the promises “from a distance” and “welcomed them” (Hebrews 11:13). Their faith was anchored in the unseen, the eternal. They lived their lives on earth with their eyes fixed on heaven.
Cultivating an Eternal Perspective in Daily Life
Understanding the importance of an eternal perspective is one thing; living it out is another. Here are practical ways to cultivate this mindset in your daily life.
1. Immerse Yourself in Scripture:
The Bible is the primary means by which we develop an eternal perspective. It reveals God’s character, His redemptive plan, and the ultimate destiny of humanity. Through Scripture, we see the world from God’s point of view. The Apostle Paul writes, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Regular reading, study, and meditation on the Word of God shape our thinking and align our values with heavenly realities. Make Bible reading a non-negotiable part of your daily routine. Let the truth of God’s Word saturate your mind and transform your perspective.
2. Engage in Regular Prayer and Fasting:
Prayer is the lifeline of the believer. It is through prayer that we communicate with God, express our dependence on Him, and align our will with His. When we pray, we are reminded that our help comes from the Lord, not from our own efforts. Fasting, which involves voluntarily abstaining from food for a spiritual purpose, is a powerful discipline that sharpens our focus on God and reminds us that we live by every word that comes from His mouth (Matthew 4:4). Prayer and fasting break the grip of earthly desires and attune our hearts to heavenly priorities.
3. Develop a Habit of Gratitude:
Gratitude is a powerful antidote to the dissatisfaction and covetousness that often accompany earthly-mindedness. When we cultivate a grateful heart, we recognize that every good gift comes from God (James 1:17). Gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to what we have been given in Christ. Paul exhorts, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Start a gratitude journal and write down three things you are thankful for each day. This practice trains your mind to see God’s hand in your life and to appreciate the eternal blessings that are yours in Christ.
4. Practice Generosity:
Generosity is a practical way to loosen the grip of materialism on our hearts. When we give generously—whether it is our time, our talents, or our resources—we are declaring that our treasure is in heaven. Jesus said, “Give, and it will be given to you” (Luke 6:38). Generosity is an expression of trust in God’s provision and a commitment to storing up eternal treasures. Look for opportunities to give to the work of the Lord, to support those in need, and to invest in things that have eternal significance.
5. Invest in Relationships:
Our relationships are one of the few things we can take with us into eternity. Our love for God and for others is the foundation of our eternal existence. Jesus summarized the entire law in two commandments: love God and love your neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40). Prioritize your relationships with your family, your church community, and your neighbors. Invest time and energy in building meaningful connections. Forgive freely, serve humbly, and love sacrificially. The relationships we cultivate on earth are a foretaste of the perfect community we will experience in heaven.
6. Live with a Sense of Urgency:
While we are not to live in fear, an eternal perspective should create a sense of urgency about sharing the gospel and living for God’s glory. The Apostle Paul writes, “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15-16). Our time on earth is limited. We must use it wisely, investing our lives in what matters for eternity. This urgency is not born of anxiety but of love—a love for God and a love for people who need to hear the good news of Jesus Christ.
7. Meditate on the Reality of Heaven and Judgment:
Scripture frequently exhorts us to reflect on the reality of heaven and the coming judgment. Paul writes, “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad” (2 Corinthians 5:10). Meditating on the reality of eternity—both the reward of the faithful and the consequences of rejecting Christ—keeps our priorities in check. It reminds us that our actions matter and that we will one day give an account for how we have lived. This is not meant to inspire fear but to motivate faithful, holy living.
8. Consider the Brevity of Life:
The Bible frequently reminds us of the brevity of life. Psalm 103:15-16 says, “The life of mortals is like grass, they flourish like a flower of the field; the wind blows over it and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more.” James compares our life to a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes (James 4:14). Reflecting on the shortness of life helps us prioritize what truly matters. It prevents us from wasting our lives on trivial pursuits and compels us to invest in what has eternal value. As the Psalmist prays, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12).
Overcoming Obstacles to an Eternal Perspective
Cultivating an eternal perspective is not without its challenges. We face numerous obstacles that can distract us from setting our minds on things above. Recognizing these obstacles and developing strategies to overcome them is essential for sustained spiritual growth.
Obstacle 1: The Pull of Materialism:
We live in a consumer culture that constantly bombards us with messages that we need more—more money, more possessions, more experiences. This relentless pursuit of material things can choke out our eternal perspective.
Solution: Practice contentment. The Apostle Paul wrote, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances” (Philippians 4:11). Contentment is not a natural inclination; it is a learned discipline. It involves trusting God for our needs and recognizing that material possessions cannot satisfy the deepest longings of our souls. Limit your exposure to advertising and social media that fuels covetousness. Regularly evaluate your possessions and ask yourself, “Am I using these things for God’s glory, or are they using me?”
Obstacle 2: The Distraction of Busyness:
Our lives are busier than ever. We are constantly connected through technology, and the demands of work, family, and social obligations can leave us exhausted and spiritually depleted. In the midst of this busyness, it is easy to neglect the things of God.
Solution: Intentionally slow down. Create space in your life for silence and solitude. Jesus often withdrew from the crowds to pray (Luke 5:16). Set boundaries around your time and learn to say no to good things so that you can say yes to the best things. Practice the discipline of Sabbath—a day of rest and worship that refreshes your soul and refocuses your priorities.
Obstacle 3: The Influence of Secular Culture:
The secular culture in which we live is increasingly hostile to Christian values. It promotes a worldview that is self-centered, materialistic, and devoid of any eternal significance. This cultural pressure can subtly erode our eternal perspective.
Solution: Be aware of the cultural influences that shape your thinking. Romans 12:2 exhorts, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Actively evaluate the media you consume, the conversations you engage in, and the values you embrace. Surround yourself with fellow believers who share your commitment to eternal values. Regularly attend a Bible-believing church where you can be encouraged and equipped to live counter-culturally.
Obstacle 4: The Pain of Suffering:
Suffering can make it difficult to maintain an eternal perspective. When we are in pain, it is natural to question God’s goodness and to become consumed with our immediate distress. Suffering often narrows our focus to our present circumstances, making it hard to see the bigger picture.
Solution: In times of suffering, cling to God’s promises. Remember that He is with you and that He is working all things for your good (Romans 8:28). Use your suffering as an opportunity to draw closer to God. Pour out your heart to Him in honesty, and ask Him to give you His perspective on your trials. Remember the example of Job and the Apostle Paul, who found strength and hope in the midst of severe suffering by fixing their eyes on the eternal.
Obstacle 5: Spiritual Apathy and Complacency:
When life is comfortable, we can become spiritually complacent. We may begin to drift, neglecting our spiritual disciplines and losing our sense of urgency for the things of God.
Solution: Regularly evaluate your spiritual temperature. Ask yourself, “Am I growing in my love for God and for others? Am I investing in things that will last for eternity?” If you find yourself drifting, repent and return to your first love (Revelation 2:4). Re-engage with spiritual disciplines such as prayer, Bible reading, and fellowship. Consider reading biographies of faithful Christians who lived with an eternal perspective—their example can rekindle your own passion for the things of God.
The Eternal Perspective and the Great Commission
Living with an eternal perspective has profound implications for how we view the Great Commission. Jesus commanded His followers, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20). This is not an optional activity for a select few; it is the mission of every believer.
When we have an eternal perspective, we understand that the salvation of souls is the most important work we can be involved in. We recognize that people are not just physical beings with temporary needs; they are eternal souls destined for either heaven or hell. This urgency compels us to share the gospel, to support missionaries, and to pray for the spread of the Kingdom.
An eternal perspective also motivates us to live holy lives. We know that our witness is compromised when we live like the world. Peter urges, “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy'” (1 Peter 1:15-16). Our conduct reflects the reality of our eternal hope and attracts others to the gospel.
The Ultimate Hope: The Return of Christ
The culmination of our eternal perspective is the blessed hope of the return of Christ. Jesus promised that He would come again to receive us to Himself (John 14:3). This is the anchor of our hope, the source of our endurance, and the motivation for our faithful service.
Titus 2:13 describes this as “looking forward to the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.” This hope is not a vague wish; it is a confident expectation. It is the assurance that Christ will return to establish His Kingdom fully and finally, to wipe away every tear, and to make all things new (Revelation 21:4-5).
Living with an eternal perspective means living in the light of Christ’s return. It means being ready, watching, and working until He comes. It means not being surprised by the challenges of life but facing them with faith, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58). It means finding our ultimate identity, security, and purpose not in the fleeting things of this world but in the glorious reality of our union with Christ and our future inheritance.
The Unshakable Hope of the Eternal
Living with an eternal perspective is not a denial of the reality of our present lives; it is a reorientation of our entire existence around the ultimate reality—the Kingdom of God. It is the conscious decision to view our lives, our resources, our relationships, and our circumstances through the lens of eternity. It is the recognition that the world we see is passing away, but the world we do not see is eternal.
The Apostle Paul’s exhortation to set our minds on things above is a call to a life of profound significance. It is an invitation to experience the peace, purpose, and joy that come from knowing that our lives are hidden with Christ in God. It is the key to overcoming the anxieties, distractions, and temptations of this world and to living a life that truly matters.
As we journey through this life, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). Let us consider the joy set before us—the eternal joy of being with Him and reigning with Him forever. Let us lay aside the weights and sins that so easily entangle us and run with endurance the race that is set before us. And let us do so with an unshakable hope, knowing that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed to us.
Set your minds on things above. Invest in what lasts for eternity. Live every day with the confident expectation of Christ’s return. For in doing so, you will discover the abundant life that He promised—a life that is rich in meaning, deep in purpose, and overflowing with hope. And on that glorious day when Christ appears, you will hear those precious words, “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!” (Matthew 25:23). This is the ultimate reward of living with an eternal perspective.
Chiamaka Nweke