Evelyn Knowles

“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God” (Co1. 3:2-3).

The above admonition is a noble aspiration, but in the busy, everyday world, how is that accomplished? How do we “set our minds on things above, not on earthly things” when a 9 to 5 job occupies the bulk of our day? Is it possible for a mother/housewife to fix her eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, while changing diapers, doing laundry, settling squabbles, preparing meals and helping with homework assignments? Is it reasonable for Jesus to really expect us to “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” when our own affairs are so demanding?

May I suggest that the aforementioned affairs are not at odds with the kingdom of God, for God Himself ordained that man should work and raise a family. If children are provided for and taught to love and revere God, that is kingdom work! Paul said, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving” (Col 3:23-24). Verse 17 of that same chapter similarly teaches, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

The context in which Paul is writing is in basic, human relations. Do all things – however varied and ordinary – with integrity, out of reverence for God. This mindset lifts the mundane to a heavenly level. Jesus Himself had a job. He fed people, settled disputes, and cared for the sick. Why did He do those things when He was supposed to be doing kingdom work? Because it was kingdom work! It was opportunity to honor the Father by directing man’s thoughts to God, teaching them to live with eternity in mind.

We have a choice to make. Will we just put in our time doing what is required, so we can cross things off our list of things to do, or will we reverently accomplish those same things by gladly making them a part of our heavenly calling?

“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” (2 Cor 4:18). It’s all a matter of focus.

Reprinted from ‘The Knowlesletter’ published monthly by Peace on Earth Ministries, Victor Knowles, President. January, 2013, Vol. 21, No. 1