“If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is 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 (ESV)

How important this passage is for the life of a Christian. In it encompasses so much of how we grow in righteousness and holiness. Do you want to forsake sin? Think about who Christ is, what He has done for you, the penalty He paid in your place, and how He has changed you. Develop a greater and increasing love and joy that the Lord of glory freed you from the shackles of sin and death. Rejoice over the precious gift of salvation. How then can you sin against God knowing what has been done on your behalf?

Want to walk in the commands of Christ? To live a life that is pleasing to God? Think of Christ who you are to emulate. It is He who purchased you. It is He who stands before the Father interceding on your behalf. Study and know Him. Love His obedience to the Father in all things. In devotion to Him, emulate His life, desire to serve Him alone, and rejoice that you are free to do all that He has commanded you.

It is so very easy to become distracted by the things of this world. Home, family, work, finances, societal strife, political chicanery, and more. Yet, we are called not to be laser-focused on the things of this world but on the things above. When we are Christ-focused, all other things are brought into an eternal perspective. Strive today to focus on things above.