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| Kari Beougher |
It can be so difficult to train our thoughts toward godly and eternal things. In the midst of day to day life, it is easy to get caught up in the details and fail to let our minds dwell on heavenly things instead of earthly things. Jobs, relationships, finances, education- even seemingly good endeavors can fill our mind and distract us from keeping a proper perspective on who God is and what He has called us to do.
Romans 8:5-6 says, "For those who are according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who are according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace."
When we focus solely on the realities of this life, it is overwhelming, discouraging, and ultimately, completely futile and displeasing to God. However, when we have a proper focus on who God is and live in the assurance of the hope of heaven, life is far less overwhelming.
When reading this verse, I think of Matthew 14 and Peter walking on the water to Jesus. When Peter had his focus on the Lord, he was able to trust the Lord and walk with confidence; the moment he focused on his circumstances, he was overwhelmed and unable to do what the Lord had asked of him. In the midst of the heartaches, confusion and disappointments of this life, we can have perfect peace when we have our minds set on the Spirit.
Today, may we purpose to set our minds on things above, not focusing on earthly things. May we "fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith" and "take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ." (Hebrews 12:2, 1 Corinthians 10:5).
