If you have been raised with Christ, seek the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
Colossians 3:1-2 

What new things have you learned so far this summer? What new experiences? New friends? New foods? New games? New ways of doing things? Within a few short weeks, you have already grown! 

Have you also grown in sanctification? (Sanctification is a theological word used to describe the process believers undergo as the Spirit of God works in them to make them like Christ by dying to sin and growing in godliness.)

The overall focus of Colossians 3 is how to make progress in sanctification.

Paul begins by emphasizing the basics—Sanctification is something that can only occur in a believer. That’s why he begins by saying, “If...” Paul does not say you will become a Christian by doing this; rather if you already are a Christian, then you should set your minds on things above. 

How about you? Have you been raised spiritually with Christ (Ephesians 2:4-6)? Have you experienced the new birth (John 1:12-13)? Have you been spiritually united to Christ (Romans 6:5-8)? 

If so, then Paul provides an instruction to kickstart your sanctification: “Set your minds on things above.”

Before salvation your mind was set on yourself, your desires, and earthly things. But after becoming a follower of Christ you now have the ability to seek the things above—God’s desires, such as the salvation of sinners, the advancement of his kingdom, and growth of the fruit of the Spirit in believers. 

Today you will need to think about a lot of different things.

Your supervisor may require you to think about how you’re going to go about mopping the floors. The schedule may dictate that you think about what meals you plan this week. Campers’ needs may obligate you to think about who needs discipline, who needs instruction, and who needs a loving word. But underlying all these demands is a greater obligation on you because of who you are.

Your life is hid with Christ in heaven; you need to think about heavenly things. As you find yourself thinking about earthly things (many of them necessary, important, and pleasant), intentionally reset your mind to a heavenly perspective.