“…those who live according to the flesh SET THEIR MINDS (phroneō: to direct one’s thoughts) on the things of the FLESH, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the SPIRIT. For to be carnally (sarx: the sensuous nature of man) minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is LIFE AND PEACE.” (Rom. 8:5-6)
Some days may be a real struggle. We get weary in the spiritual battles, stuck in tough places, or feel pressure in the heat of hard times. That’s when we need to “set” our minds on things above, “…where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. SET (to seek after, strive for, be intent on.) YOUR MIND ON THINGS ABOVE, not on things on the earth. For you died, and YOUR LIFE IS HIDDEN WITH CHRIST IN GOD.” (Col. 3:1-3)
We determine what we think about! “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, of good report, if there is ANY VIRTUE (aretē: moral excellence) and if there is ANY PRAISE—THINK ON THESE THINGS.” (Phil. 4:8)
SET YOUR MINDS ON THESE THINGS! Because, “…you are not in the flesh but IN THE SPIRIT, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you…” (Rom. 8:9)
-Bill Stockham