Set Your Affection
- Bishop Keith Butler
- May 5
- 2 min read
If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. (Colossians 3:1-2)
In Colossians 3:1-2, Paul was writing to believers who had shifted their focus to the matters of this world. It's easy to become consumed with the news, the difficulties you are facing, and your current wants and needs instead of looking toward what the kingdom of God needs and is doing now.
To help believers get into the right frame of mind, he reminded them of their powerful condition: “If ye then be risen with Christ.” You possess resurrection power! Just as Christ died and rose again, we also died to our old selves and have risen into a new life—a powerful life, a life of authority and strength. However, this new life requires a new focus.
Paul continued when he wrote, “Seek those things which are above.” But what exactly are these things? Paul clarified by pointing directly to the place: “where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.” The right-hand position in ancient times signified authority and victory. Seeking things above means recognizing God's authority and victory through faith.
To set your affection means intentionally directing your mind or thoughts. Paul emphasized the intentional effort that believers need to maintain—a heavenly focus. It doesn't happen automatically; it requires a continuous, conscious choice. Why? Because our natural tendencies constantly pull us toward earthly issues—things we can see, feel, and touch. Paul's message to the Colossians encouraged believers to evaluate every aspect of life—relationships, careers, finances, and daily activities—through a heavenly lens. It calls us to regularly ask: Does this align with God's purposes? Is this decision influenced by worldly values or heavenly ones? Are my priorities reflecting temporary satisfaction or eternal significance?
Practical Application
Consciously pause and evaluate your decisions, words, and actions by asking yourself, "Am I making this choice based on earthly concerns or heavenly principles?”
