A NEW ATTITUDE FOR A NEW YEAR
Read it
Colossians 3:1-2
“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.”
Discover It
In our verses for today, Paul wrote to a group of Christians in Colossae, a city in present-day Turkey. At one time Paul had persecuted Christians, but through the grace of God was miraculously converted, becoming a sold-out follower of Jesus. Paul, writing from prison, challenges the believers in this church to step up and become more fully devoted to Christ. And it begins a new attitude, and a new mindset as we enter into a new year!
Ask It
1. In verse 1, Paul says that these believers have been “raised with Christ.” What do you think this means? How does it make you feel when you read these words?
2. Also, in verse 1, Paul encourages his readers to, “set your hearts on things above.” Another translation says to “set your affections on things above.” This means to fall in love with all the right things (and to fall out of love with all the wrong things). What are some things Christians should fall in love with? What are some things Christians should fall out of love with?
3. In verse 2, Paul challenges his readers to “set your minds on things above.” This speaks of having a different mindset. How can a relationship with Jesus Christ change your way of thinking?
Live It
1. Be Raised with Christ! Accept the forgiveness he provides through the Cross. And accept the eternal life he offers through the Resurrection!
2. Set Your Heart on Christ. The greatest commandment is to, “love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind.” Christ should have your heart!
3. Set Your Mind on Christ. Not only should you give your heart to Jesus, but you should give him your mind and attitudes as well. Allow Jesus to change your mind! Allow Jesus to re-set your attitudes and values!
Pray It
Heavenly Father, I come before you in humility and surrender, confessing that my thoughts and attitudes do not always align with your will. Lord, I recognize that my mindset can sometimes be clouded by negativity, doubt, or selfishness. I pray that you would replace these thoughts with positivity, faith, and selflessness. I seek your divine guidance and grace to transform my mind and heart according to your perfect plan. Help me focus on what is pure, noble, and true, in accordance with your Word. Please change any attitudes within me that are not in line with your love and compassion. May I learn to see others through your eyes, and to show kindness and understanding even in challenging situations. Let the fruit of the Spirit – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control – be evident in my attitudes and actions. Please empower me to overcome negative thought patterns and cultivate a mind that is renewed by your truth. As much as I know how, I surrender my will to yours, trusting that you know what is best for me. In Jesus’ name – Amen.
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