How we think, evaluate and determine things in our mind
makes all the difference as to how we live and act in this life. If you are thinking about spiritual matters and striving to reason as God's Word directs, you will do day to day activities based on godly principles. On the other hand if your thoughts revolve around earthly circumstances, then your decisions and choices will be guided by the physical world.

The apostle Paul tells Christians to seek those things which are above where Christ is sitting at the right hand of God, and to set their minds on things above, not on things that are on the earth (Col. 3:1,2).

As Christians we are to put to death our members which are on the earth: such members as fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desires and covetousness which is idolatry (vs. 5). Paul writes that we are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of our mouths, and lying to one another, since we have put off the old man with his deeds. Put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created us (Col. 3:8-11).

Christians are given the spiritual attitudes and acts they are to develop and possess in Christ. They are directed to seek and set their minds as the elect of God, holy and beloved, by putting on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering, bearing with one another, and forgiving one another...But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts...and be thankful. Let the Word of God dwell in you richly in all wisdom...And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him (Col. 3:12-17).

The beauty of God's Word is the clear and precise direction and guidance it gives to followers of Christ. Often the New Testament writers guided by the Holy Spirit reveal what a child of God
should do and not do in one's walk in Christ. For example, we are asked to forgive others because Christ forgave us (vs. 13). Be attentive to these admonitions. Think about the qualities of character God seeks for us, and the godliness that will result in righteous lives.

Meditate on the spiritual and heavenly principles that are in God's Word. Then set your mind and heart on doing them whether it is putting something off or putting it on -- to God be the glory!

By Ron Drumm.

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