The Things of Heaven

Colossians 3:2 -- "Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth."

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We all suffer. I feel like I say that again and again. However, it is inevitable. We live in a fallen world full of sin, and if it's not our own sin getting in the way it's someone else's blocking us.

There is great suffering everywhere, which is true and real with persecutions, tragedy and illness. But there is also inconvenient suffering. This is what I find myself in a lot. Where my suffering is over a bad day or a set of circumstances which aren't what I like. I occasionally battle with depression, which can elevate into an illness, but I generally consider it a case of inconvenient suffering. It is just part of the flux of life.

This inconvenient suffering is still important because it is important to you. However, by keeping in perspective the ones who truly suffer in great, life-changing ways for reasons out of there control, can make you see how truly blessed you really are even when you are suffering in your own way and feeling those low moments.

I believe the answer to suffering is to stop thinking about your trouble, situations and circumstances. Keep your eyes on the things of heaven, not the things of earth. The things of heaven are God and His ultimate control over things of this world, mercy to forgive when you make mistakes and righteousness that everything is designed for the greater good.

The other aspect of heaven is to keep your eyes on other people around you, to lift them up and help guide them by Christ's light. By taking your eyes off of yourself and putting them on others, you not only help them out but you also help yourself. This includes keeping in your mind and prayers to intercede for those who suffer in major ways. It also means helping out, being a shoulder to lean on, listening and praying for others, like yourself, who are facing inconvenient suffering because it is still suffering and can greatly affect your and those around you.

During times of suffering keep a positive attitude and keep your eyes on the things of heaven.

There are more Devotionals where this one came from!

Study God's Word and be Blessed!