Let’s face it. We really are what we think about and desire. Our minds are the GPS that leads us to our “treasure,” and our hearts are the engine that carries us to our “prize.” Our minds determine the direction; our hearts provide the drive. That’s why the passage today is so important.

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

In our new life, transformed by Jesus, it is his Spirit, speaking through our internal GPS, who gives the direction to “continue straight” or “turn right.” For all those who “have been raised with Christ,” it is his Spirit who empowers us to continue on and complete the journey. When we make the wrong turn, accidentally or on purpose (or accidentally on purpose!), the Spirit “recalibrates” the route to get us back on the right path.

Setting our hearts and minds “on things that are above” is not some mysterious endeavor maintained by secluded meditation. Paul explains that this eternal direction and drive is secured by following Jesus and living in obedience to him. Make up your mind to follow hard after Jesus. If you do that, you will always be headed in the right direction for the right reasons.

Father, earthly things distract me. They are shiny and tempting. They cause my mind and heart to take the wrong exits and stay too long at rest stops. Forgive me. I can’t make this journey on my own. Capture my mind and heart for Jesus. Help me keep in step with his Spirit. In Jesus’ name. Amen.