The Battle for Your Heart

MORNING

Read Colossians 3:1-4

Devotion

This Scripture shows how what has happened to us now and what will happen to us in the future should change the way we follow Jesus. Our present reality: You have died to an independent, self-centered life (3:3) and have been resurrected to a new life in Christ. Your life has radically changed. You are a new creation. Our future reality: When everything is completed and Jesus returns to establish His new perfect heaven and earth, you will rule with Him (3:4). Your new life and your future trajectory all revolve around Jesus.

Because your present reality and your future hope are deeply tied to what Jesus has done and what He will do, it would be a complete waste of time to get entrenched in this world and what it offers. Our hearts (3:1) and minds (3:2) are captured by Christ and His life for His growing kingdom. This seems obvious and straightforward, but it’s also a huge challenge. We live in a world that seeks to invade every longing of our hearts and every portion of our minds. It tries to capture our desires and thinking and to tie us to the temporary and dissatisfying.

But everyday disciples of Jesus “set” their hearts and minds on the reality of their present life in Jesus and their future hope with Jesus (3:1,2). Paul makes this an imperative. It’s something we have to intentionally do. It won’t just naturally happen. Each day we must consciously focus on who we are and who we will be in Christ. This is an act of our will, a choice we keep making. You need to deliberately “set your mind on things above” throughout your day.

Prayer

This world bombards me with its promises and worries. It’s so easy for my heart and mind to be captured by empty dreams and anxious thoughts. But I know that I am a new creation and that I have a significant place with You in Your kingdom forever. Please give me the strength to focus my heart and mind on Your plans and promises today. May I see things from “above” (from Your perspective).

Today’s Bible Focus

“Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things."

LUNCHTIME (or when you can make a moment during the day)

1. Meditate for a short time on today’s Bible Focus. Let it seep into your heart.

2. Look and see what is happening around you from God’s perspective and listen to see whether God is whispering anything to you.

3. Pray for any not-yet Christians God has placed on your heart.

EVENING

1. Remember: Repeat today’s Bible Focus.

2. Reflect: Reflect on the day and thank God for what He has said and done.

3. Repent: Check where you have neglected or disobeyed God during the day and ask for forgiveness and freedom.

4. Release: Name any concerns or fears on your mind and release them to Jesus.