Living for Christ: Dying to Self And Embracing God's Priorities

Living for Christ: Priorities, Perspective, and Purpose

In a world filled with distractions and competing demands, how can we truly live out our faith in a way that honors God and transforms our lives? The answer lies in a radical shift of priorities, perspective, and purpose – one that aligns our hearts and minds with the will of God.

At the core of this transformative journey is a powerful truth found in Colossians 3:1-4:

"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. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory."

This passage challenges us to die to our own priorities and embrace God's priorities. But what does this look like in practice?

First and foremost, it means recognizing that God's heart is for all to come to repentance and find salvation in Jesus. This should be our top priority as well – spreading the Gospel and making disciples. It's easy to become overwhelmed with busy schedules and worldly commitments, but we must ask ourselves: are we truly focused on what matters most to God?

Jesus addresses this shift in priorities beautifully in Matthew 6:25-34, reminding us not to worry about earthly needs like food, drink, and clothing. Instead, He urges us to "seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." This isn't a prosperity gospel promising wealth and comfort, but rather an assurance that when we align our priorities with God's, He will provide for our needs.

The second key aspect of this transformed life is finding direction only from God, never from the world. Colossians 3:2 instructs us to "set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth." The Greek word used here implies exercising our minds, entertaining thoughts, and adopting sentiments that are focused on heavenly realities rather than earthly concerns.

This shift in mental focus is further emphasized in Philippians 4:7-8:

"And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."

By cultivating a mind fixed on these godly attributes, we invite the peace of God into our lives. This peace acts as a shield against anxiety, worry, and the chaos of the world around us.

A third crucial truth emerges from Colossians 3:3 – "For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God." This verse reveals the profound security we have in Christ. When we truly grasp this reality, it frees us to live boldly for God without fear of worldly consequences. We are spiritually hidden and safe in Christ, which should empower us to serve Him wholeheartedly.

This spiritual security should propel us into action, not complacency. Jesus promises in John 14:12-14 that those who believe in Him will do even greater works than He did. Are we living up to this potential? Are we stepping out in faith, expecting God to work miraculously through us?

As we embrace these truths and allow them to transform our lives, we must also be acutely aware that Christ will return. Colossians 3:4 reminds us, "When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory." This anticipation should fuel our urgency in living out the Gospel and preparing our hearts for His coming.

Part of this preparation involves "mortifying" or putting to death the sinful nature within us. Colossians 3:5-7 provides a sobering list of behaviors and attitudes that have no place in the life of a believer – sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed. We are called to be dead to these things, actively resisting their influence in our lives.

This process of mortification is not about earning God's favor, but rather about living out the reality of our new identity in Christ. As Romans 6:6 states, "Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin."

The challenge before us is clear – will we choose to serve God wholeheartedly, or will we continue to cling to the ways of the world? Joshua's declaration in Joshua 24:15 rings out across the centuries: "Choose you this day whom ye will serve... but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."

As we reflect on these profound truths, let us examine our own lives. Are our priorities aligned with God's heart? Is our perspective shaped by heavenly realities rather than earthly concerns? Are we living with purpose, actively preparing for Christ's return and allowing His power to work through us?

The invitation is open to all. For those who have never embraced Jesus as Lord and Savior, now is the time to step out of the shadow of God's wrath and into the light of His love. For believers, it's a call to deeper commitment, to mortify the flesh and live fully for Christ.

May we all have the courage to die to ourselves, set our minds on things above, and live as those who are hidden safely in Christ – bold, purposeful, and eagerly anticipating His glorious return.