Think of the things above
Preaching Outline on Colossians 3:2 – “Set your minds on things above, not on things on this earth”
Introduction to Colossians 3:2
Let’s imagine a quick scene: you’re driving your car and suddenly realize that the GPS is faulty. It sends you the wrong way and you end up lost. Now, think about this happening not just in traffic, but in life. How often do we get lost because we’re focused on the wrong things?
This is exactly what Paul wanted to remind us in Colossians 3:2: “Set your minds on things above, not on things on this earth.” This verse is like a reset for our minds. It’s a reminder that if we want to live a life full of purpose and peace, we need to learn to change our focus.
Instead of spending energy on earthly worries and distractions, we should look at what really matters: heavenly things.
Development
1. The problem with thinking only about things on earth
Let’s face it: the world we live in is full of distractions. Money, status, momentary pleasures, social media, comparisons… Everything seems to be screaming for our attention. But what happens when we focus too much on these things? They trap us. They make us anxious, dissatisfied and often even frustrated.
The Bible clearly states that the things of this earth are temporary (James 4:14). They may seem important now, but they won’t last forever. If we put all our energy into them, we’ll end up like that guy who builds his house on sand – when the storm comes, everything will collapse (Matthew 7:26-27).
On the other hand, when we focus on the things of this earth, we also run the risk of forgetting who we really are: children of God! We lose our identity and start living as if this world were all there is. And that, my brothers and sisters, is dangerous.
2. What does it mean to think about things from above?
When Paul talks about “thinking on things above”, he’s not talking about keeping our heads in the clouds or completely ignoring the responsibilities here. No, he’s inviting us to adjust our perspective.
Thinking about things above means looking at life from God’s point of view. It means seeking the values of the Kingdom of God instead of the values of the world. For example: instead of chasing money, we seek contentment; instead of coveting what others have, we practice gratitude; instead of worrying about the future, we trust in God’s care.
Jesus already taught us this in Matthew 6:33: “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” When we prioritize heavenly things, God takes care of earthly things.
3. How can we train our minds to think of things above?
Let’s face it: changing our focus doesn’t happen overnight. The Bible says in Romans 12:2 that we need to renew our minds. And this is a daily process. Here are some practical tips to get you started:
- Spend time with God: Meditate on the Word, pray and talk to God regularly. This helps to align our thoughts with his.
- Remember eternity: Everything we’re experiencing now is temporary. One day we will be with Jesus forever. That totally changes our perspective!
- Practice praise: When we begin to worship, we automatically raise our thoughts to things above.
- Surround yourself with like-minded people: Hang out with people who also seek heavenly things. This will inspire you and help you stay focused.
Conclusion of Colossians 3:2
Paul ends this verse with a clear instruction: focus on things above. Not because heaven is better than earth, but because only when we look up can we live well down here.
My brothers and sisters, the world will try to distract you. It will push you down, make you believe that happiness comes from material goods or human recognition. But I say to you: don’t fall into that trap! Focus on things above. Remember who you are in Christ. Seek the values of the Kingdom. And when you do, you’ll discover that the peace, joy and purpose you so desperately seek are available right here, right now.
So, what is your choice today? Will you keep looking down, stuck in earthly concerns? Or will you lift your eyes to things above? God is inviting you to a higher, deeper and more meaningful life. How about accepting this invitation?
May God bless us all as we learn to think as He thinks. Amen!
Preaching Outline on Colossians 3:2 – “Set your minds on things above, not on things on this earth”
More Preaching Outlines
- A life hidden in Christ – Colossians 3:3
- The six Marys in the New Testament
- Jesus is all we need – 2 Corinthians 3:5
