There is a Christian expression “so heavenly minded that you are of no earthly good” that deserves our full attention. For the Apostle Paul seems to be saying the exact opposite in this passage.

Paul - Heavenly minded makes us earthly indispensable.

When Paul was writing the return of Jesus was thought to be any moment. Literally any moment. Some were even quitting their jobs and had stopped taking care of their responsibilities for they just knew Jesus was be back any second. In fact this was such an issue that Paul wrote to the Thessalonians that those among them who did not work should not eat (2 Thess 3:10).

Being heavenly minded means taking the best of heaven and working for it on earth.

1. God’s presence is full and real.
2. God’s community is engaged.
3. God’s healing assures no more tears, pain, loss.
4. God is making all things new.

The Lord’s Prayer asks for “thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.”

Remembering the heavenly reality gives us the best perspective from which to live our lives and the best actions from which to make things better.

Relationships (faith, hope, love)
Emotions (compassion is what drove Jesus to help)
Work (purposeful use of our talents and skills)
Possessions (generous gifts for the common good)