It’s been said that we can be “so heavenly minded that we are no earthly good”. This paints a satirical picture of heavenly mindedness as spiritual aloofness, void of any practical good.

Of course, even if anyone was to actually fall into this category, this is not at all the true nature of being heavenly minded. So what does it mean? In today’s passage Paul points out that being heavenly minded or setting “your mind on things above” (v.2), is to focus on Christ Jesus and His kingdom (divine nature). And this comes with a strong emphasis on being the likeness of Christ. Paul highlights the contrasting things that are above (divine nature) and those that are earthly.

The Earthly Nature (earthly things): sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, greed, which is idolatry, anger, rage, malice, slander, filthy language from your lips and lying. We are told to rid ourselves of all these things, that are of an “earthly nature” and which oppose our new divine nature as those “raised with Christ” (v.1).

The Divine Nature (things above): holiness, compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, love and peace. We are to wear these qualities of Christ wherever we go, that people may experience Jesus himself through us when they come into contact with us.

Added to this Paul draws attention to key truths (things above) about your identity as a Christian:

Allow yourself to dwell on these truths and let your heart be lifted with gratitude and thankfulness and your life shine with godliness.

Mike Ikwuagwu