Eternal Perspective in Christ
Jesus Christ is exalted today in heaven, seated at the right hand of God in the place of greatest honor and authority. He has been reunited with the Father and holds a position of ultimate sovereignty over all creation. This includes angels, authorities, and powers—both human and supernatural. His reign extends over everything in the universe, a testament to His divine nature and victory.
"who has gone into heaven and is at God’s right hand—with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him."1 Peter 3:22.
For believers, this truth calls for an eternal perspective, prioritizing heavenly values over worldly concerns. Rather than being bound by external rules, Christians are called to live in daily submission to the Holy Spirit. This Spirit-led life transforms their priorities, aligning them with God's eternal purposes.
As followers of Christ, we are urged to "set our minds on things above," for that is where Christ is—not on earth, nor in the grave, but at the right hand of God. This heavenly focus shapes how we live, reminding us that our true home and hope are found in eternity with Him.
An eternal perspective means focusing on what truly lasts, the things of God that have everlasting significance. It involves aligning your thoughts and actions with heavenly values, such as love, faith, and obedience to God, rather than becoming consumed by temporary, earthly concerns like material wealth or societal status. This perspective encourages believers to view their lives as part of a greater, divine plan, where the ultimate goal is to glorify God and prepare for eternity with Him. By prioritizing what pleases God and serves His kingdom, Christians find purpose and fulfillment that transcends the fleeting worries and ambitions of this world.
Christians are invited to surrender their daily lives to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, trusting Him to direct their thoughts, decisions, and actions. This means seeking His wisdom in every moment and allowing His presence to shape how they live. When believers live in submission to the Spirit, their priorities begin to change. Instead of being driven by personal desires or worldly goals, they become focused on fulfilling God’s eternal purposes, such as showing love, sharing the gospel, and growing in faith. This Spirit-led life brings alignment with God’s will, helping Christians reflect His character and advance His kingdom in all they do.
As followers of Christ, we are encouraged to focus our thoughts and hearts on heavenly realities rather than earthly distractions. This means keeping our attention on God’s eternal truth, His promises, and the hope we have in Christ. The reason for this focus is clear: Christ, our Savior, is no longer bound by the limitations of earth or the grave. He has been exalted to the highest place of honor, seated at the right hand of God, where He reigns in power and glory. By setting our minds on "things above," we align ourselves with the eternal perspective of His victory and sovereignty, allowing His presence and purpose to guide our lives.
A heavenly focus transforms the way Christians approach life by reorienting their priorities, values, and decisions around eternal truths rather than temporary, worldly matters. This mindset stems from the understanding that life on earth is not the ultimate destination but a journey toward an eternal home with Christ. When believers keep their eyes fixed on heaven, they are reminded that their citizenship is in God’s kingdom, not in the fleeting systems of this world.
This perspective influences every aspect of life. It brings hope in times of difficulty, as believers trust that their struggles are momentary compared to the joy and peace awaiting them in eternity. It also encourages them to invest their time, talents, and resources in ways that reflect God’s love and purpose, knowing these actions have lasting significance.
Additionally, a heavenly focus shapes character. It fosters humility, gratitude, and a deeper desire to serve others, mirroring Christ’s example. It helps believers resist the lure of materialism and self-centered ambition, replacing those with a longing to glorify God in all they do. Ultimately, this focus anchors their hope in the promise of eternal life with Christ, providing a steady foundation for faith and a clear direction for their earthly journey.