A Model Of Values

Colossians 3:1-4

Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. (Colossians 3:2)

YOUR LIFE IS A DEMONSTRATION of your values. The things you choose to invest your time and money in, the ways you manage your relationships, the decisions you make about lifestyle and career—all of these are reflections of what is most important to you. Regardless of how you express your values verbally, your decisions in day-to-day life prove your true priorities. You are constantly expressing your deepest, truest loyalties.

That thought may be scary or sobering, or perhaps challenging or encouraging. Jesus called his followers to seek his Kingdom above all else (Matthew 6:33), and you probably sense that in some ways you have taken up that calling seriously and in other ways are falling short. He has plenty of grace for you as you grow, but the people around you may not. They may see where your heart lies, but they need to know more: Is the unseen realm real to you? Are you investing more than your words in God’s Kingdom? In spite of your imperfections, are you growing in the right direction?

Paul’s words in Colossians 3:2 are not an appeal to a life of escapism, in which you ignore the needs of the world and think only spiritual thoughts. It is rather an invitation to align your thoughts with God’s—to see as he sees, value what he values, and prioritize what he prioritizes. They offer an opportunity to demonstrate the reality of the Kingdom of God in everything you do, even the mundane tasks of daily living. Even more, they urge you to express his heart to those around you.

Take that invitation seriously. Recognize what is most important and resolve to invest your life in those things to the full. Be a signpost to eternal realities—not only the gospel of salvation but also the goodness of God in every area of life. Become a living, breathing picture of the values of God’s Kingdom.

{Lord, let me see as you see, think as you think, and do and say what you do and say. My natural thoughts do not align with yours, but your Spirit changes everything and gives me the mind of Christ. May I display it in everything I do. Amen.