Paul goes right to the heart of the matter. He says very clearly, "set your hearts on things above," and "set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." It made me stop and think how often we say those things, but our lives do not show any evidence of change. It is not impossible, but it is a process, so we need to have a spiritual check up every day; making sure no sin has crept back in. Verse 5-8 in chapter 3 are very specific about what we need to keep in check; sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, greed; all of which he describes as idolatry. Anything that keeps Christ from being the center of our affection is idolatry. Also, he tells us to "get rid of" anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from our tongues, as well as lying.
In 3:12-17, Paul gives us the spiritual prescription. "Therefore as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since we as members of the body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."
I love the words of Chuck Swindoll concerning issues that we haven't dealt with. He say, "Don't let another day slip by without taking action on that issue about which you know God has been prompting you." (quote taken from The Living Insights Bible, page 1279, copyright 1996, Zondervan Publishing House) Is there an issue that you haven't dealt with and given to God? No time like the present. God has been patiently waiting for you and with Him is full forgiveness. (1 John 1:9)
We need to set our hearts and minds on Christ and His Word, being careful to walk according to it. We also need to be persistent in prayer. Chapter 4:2 says, "Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful."
South African missionary, Andrew Murray(1828-1917) has said:
"God asks that I carefully stay in close fellowship with Him every day in order that my prayers will be answered."
"Through prayer, God lovingly reveals areas in our lives that need to change."
"A life of prayer will make a life of love to Christ, to other Christians, and to those without Christ."
"Prayer is the one power on earth that commands the power of heaven."
"God will hear my prayer when I hold unflinching confidence in the power of His promise."
"To pray is to enter into God's presence, commit my need to Him, and leave it there."
(quotes taken from the booklet, 199 Treasures of Wisdom on Talking with God, copyright 2007 Barbour Publishing, Inc.)
In God's presence there is peace. In God's presence there is power. In God's presence there is protection. In God's presence there is purpose. In God's presence there is prevailing grace. Time spent in His presence will keep our focus fully on Him and help us set our hearts and minds on the things that bring Him glory.
"Hear my cry, O God;
listen to my prayer.
From the ends of the earth I call to You,
I call as my heart grows faint;
lead me to the Rock that is higher than I."
Psalm 61-1-2
listen to my prayer.
From the ends of the earth I call to You,
I call as my heart grows faint;
lead me to the Rock that is higher than I."
Psalm 61-1-2
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