“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Colossians 3:2 (ESV)
Have you ever longed to get away? This morning, I found myself looking at mountain cabins, dreaming of an adventure. Perhaps it’s because the weather is unbearable today, so even stepping outside seemed crazy. As the day wore on, I didn’t want to read, write, cook, clean, watch TV, or do anything. But it was more than a desire to get away. I was suffering from a restless soul.
Having a restless soul means being ill at ease with yourself or your current situation. Restlessness makes us feel bored, anxious, or uncomfortable. We seek to escape and ease our discomfort. Perhaps you’ve felt the same way yourself.
Restlessness is a common problem because humans were designed for God’s eternal kingdom rather than this world. “The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever” (1 John 2:17, NIV). So, the things of this world will never satisfy our souls and longings.
Today’s key verse gives us the key to unlocking our restless hearts. “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2, ESV). When we set our minds on “things above,” we will know and be able to do God’s will.
You see, God created each of us for a purpose. “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10, NIV). Perhaps restlessness is God’s way of getting our attention. Maybe God is calling us to the purpose He created us for. When we set our minds on “things above” or His will for our lives and begin doing them, our restless feelings will ease.
Since that’s easier said than done, here are a few ways to ease our restlessness as we set our minds on things above and mentally prepare to do God’s will.
- Pray:
The more you seek God, the more you will hear the unique purpose and calling He has for your life. Then, you will be ready to do His will.
- Read the Bible:
When we read the Word of God, our minds are set on things above. God speaks to us and shows us His will through His Word. Similarly, God eases our restlessness through His word by reminding us of His love, character, and promises.
- Do Breathing exercises:
Breathing helps calm our minds and bodies and will help us feel less restless as God prepares us to do His will. We can breathe in with God and His peace for 4 seconds. Next, we hold our breath for 4 seconds while meditating on God’s goodness, love, and peace. Finally, we can breathe out our body’s restless, jittery feelings for 4 seconds.
- Listen to Music:
This can be quiet, relaxing, upbeat, or toe-tapping music to bring us out of our restless funk. It can also be Christian worship music to refresh our souls and set our minds on “things above.”
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for all the blessings I have in my life. Please help me remember to set my mind on “things above” or Your will for my life, especially when I am restless. In Jesus’ Name, Amen
