“Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” (Colossians 3:1-2)

I don’t know about you, but this pandemic is really “messing with me.” The expression “messing with me” is a way of describing an outside negative influence (person, place, or thing). Today, many people seek the world for help, relief, and solutions for their fears, anxieties, confusion, and insecurities. How should Christians respond to a changing environment?

Let’s look at the ordinary housefly as an analogy. Some houseflies fly fast in a circular pattern with no particular purpose or destination. Then there are flies that buzz around your window because they want to go outdoors. Both of these flies are expending a lot of energy to survive.

Today, many people seek the world for help. It is interesting how people spend a lifetime following the world’s teachings hoping to find peace and tranquility. They spend a lot of time and money pursuing wealth and possessions to ease their pain and end up self-centered and self-serving. Neither these people nor the houseflies will find what they are looking for without help.

The Apostle Paul has given us the answer to how believers can respond to difficult times. He says to set our hearts and minds on the things above and not on earthly things. Paul is saying that those who have Jesus will have all they need in life. The important question is not What but Who to pursue in life. Jesus is the only one we are to seek for help, strength, comfort, security, and purpose. So, if your life seems to be in a housefly pattern, then change its direction by setting your heart and mind on the things above where Jesus is seated.