Shifting Our Mindset

Key Verse to Read and Treasure

Set your mind on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. (Colossians 3:2)

For Insight

When we have an earthly mindset, we are mostly concerned, filled with, and obsessed with the things of earth: will I have enough? How can I build more wealth or add to my material possessions? When or how will I meet the right person to spend my life with? What is this or that celebrity posting or tweeting? What is going on with this or that politician. Jesus warns,

Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. ²⁰ But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. ²¹ For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Matthew 6:19, NIV)

Making our home in Christ our earthly mindset starts to shift and reflect a heavenly mindset. This is a mindset where we become more concerned about our eternity. About what pleases God. About our relationship with the Godhead. We become more Spirit aware and become concerned about obeying the Father and being Spirit sensitive and responsive.

Before Paul had his encounter with Jesus on the Damascus Road as Saul, he had an earthly mindset. He believed the activity of Christians was wicked and rebellious against God and pursued them vigorously. But after his encounter with the risen Lord his mindset changed and became aligned with the Son and the Father in heaven. His journey took him to places where he would witness Christ crucified and risen not crucifying believers for their faith in the Lord.

The Samaritan woman is another example of someone who had an earthly mindset before meeting Jesus. She stayed hidden indoors until the village women had cleared the well which was also their daily gathering spot. She was living under a shame and guilt complex. Concerned about their judgment of her lifestyle. But after talking with Jesus she was emboldened to go into the village in the middle of the day and even witness Christ to others. Her concern about gossip, whispers, stares, and silence toward her were replaced with freedom and knowing God forgave and accepted her.

We don’t always realize our mindset is leaning toward an earthy one until Jesus points it out. David said search me O God and see if there is anything in me that displeases you. Search me and know my thoughts. (Read Psalm 139: 23-24).

After the Spirit searches us, we realize what our mind fixated on and after confessing and praying, God shows us an alternative mindset to adopt: one of heaven and obedience. Shifting from an earthy to a heavenly mindset is a benefit and blessing of life with Jesus and living in the Vine our new mindset is nurtured and firmed up.

Jesus, I’m so blessed how you, the Father, and the Holy Spirit work together to help me see the mindset I have. Whenever I learn I am investing in an earthly mindset, help me to correct it so it aligns with the heavenly mindset I need to have. Amen

Ask Yourself

What kind of mindset do I have? Am I more concerned with the things of earth or heaven? Am I willing to let God realign my mindset when necessary?

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