Seeking Things Above “If you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth.” – Colossians 3:1-2 NASB Concerned about how French society was developing, Alexis de Tocqueville decided to visit the United States in 1831. There, he observed that “nothing struck me more forcibly than the general equality of condition among the people.” This focus on equality was a driving force for the dynamic growth and shape of American society. It was growing in importance throughout Europe as well. Tocqueville was struck with the “great benefits” of equality. But he also realized it “suggests to men…some very dangerous propensities.” Instead of focusing on excellence and spiritual growth, equality tended to isolate people from each other, “to concentrate every man’s attention upon himself; and it lays open the soul to an inordinate love of material gratification.” In contrast, Tocqueville pointed to “the greatest advantage of religion” which is “to inspire diametrically contrary principles.” He realized that faith in God focuses our energies “above and beyond the treasures of earth, which does not naturally raise his soul to regions far above those of the senses.” Paul expressed this same truth in his letter to the Colossians. He knew how easily our minds can become saturated with the things of this world—possessions and status, achievements and pleasures. But he also knew that, to experience all of God’s great blessings, we need to “keep seeking the things above.” Today, make sure to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. Remember that God has a special plan just for you. Don’t be conformed to this world, with its illusions and false hopes, but seek to live a life of excellence. Let God fulfill His destiny for you. Todays Inspiration Prayer Father, I seek first Your Kingdom. Change me by Your Spirit. Help me to focus my energies on pleasing You. I commit my time, talent, and treasure to You. In Jesus’ name. Amen. Further Reading: Colossians 3 Inspiration Ministries 3000 World Reach Drive, Indian Land, SC 29707 +1 803-578-1899 US | 0845 683-0580 UK inspiration.org +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33 (NIV) (New International Version) And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life. Matthew 19:29 (NIV) Whoever leads the upright along an evil path will fall into their own trap, but the blameless will receive a good inheritance. Proverbs 28:10 (NIV) Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to. Luke 13:24 (NIV) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Bob Akins Proclaiming Jesus Christ to the World Faith House Ministries International Apollo Beach Florida USA
Posted on: Sat, 23 Aug 2014 11:23:45 +0000
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