Look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. –
2 Corinthians 4:18
It is easy to get caught up in this tangible life with its cares, concerns, and ambitions. In the parable of the sower, one of the four types of soils was a person that heard the word, but the cares of the world choked it out (Matthew 13:22). That is why Paul encourages readers to “set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on the earth” (Colossians 3:2). The verse advises to “look not to the things that are seen but unseen.” What are those invisible things that believers are to “look at?”
Paul says, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things” (Philippians 4:8). As Johnson Oatman, Jr., wrote in the hymn “Higher Ground,” let this be your prayer, “Lord, lift me up, and let me stand/By faith, on heaven’s tableland/A higher plane than I have found/Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.”
Paying too much attention to the troubles in this world can lead to fear, anxiety, and depression – emotions that can cripple the Christian life. Setting your mind on faith, prayer, and thanksgiving brings confidence and joy, enabling you to live out the purpose God has planned for you.
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