What is the biblical meaning of "set your hearts on things above"?

The phrase "set your hearts on things above" is a powerful and profound spiritual exhortation found in the Bible, specifically in Colossians 3:1-2. In this verse, the apostle Paul urges believers to focus their hearts and minds on heavenly things rather than earthly things. But what exactly does this mean, and how can we apply it to our lives today?

To set our hearts on things above means to prioritize the eternal and spiritual over the temporary and material. It is about shifting our perspective from the things of this world to the things of God's kingdom. In a world that is constantly bombarding us with distractions and temptations, it can be easy to get caught up in the pursuit of wealth, success, and material possessions. However, the Bible reminds us that true fulfillment and satisfaction can only be found in seeking after God and His kingdom.

Colossians 3:1-2 says, "Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." This verse emphasizes that as followers of Christ, our focus should be on heavenly realities and the presence of God. By fixing our minds and hearts on things above, we can experience peace, joy, and contentment that surpasses all understanding.

Setting our hearts on things above also involves seeking spiritual growth and transformation. In Romans 12:2, Paul writes, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will." This verse highlights the importance of renewing our minds and aligning our thoughts with God's truth. When we set our hearts on things above, we are allowing the Holy Spirit to transform us and mold us into the image of Christ.

Moreover, setting our hearts on things above requires us to prioritize our relationship with God above all else. In Matthew 6:33, Jesus says, "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." This verse reminds us that when we seek after God and His kingdom, everything else in our lives will fall into place. When we make God the center of our lives and set our hearts on things above, we will experience His peace, provision, and guidance in all areas of our lives.

In a world that is filled with uncertainty, chaos, and unrest, setting our hearts on things above is a powerful and life-changing practice. By focusing on heavenly realities and seeking after God's kingdom, we can find hope, peace, and purpose that transcends our circumstances. So let us heed the apostle Paul's exhortation to "set our hearts on things above" and experience the transformative power of God's love and presence in our lives.