Heavenly Minded or Earthly Minded

HEAVENLY MINDED

Their end is destruction, their God is their belly, and their glory is in their shame. Their minds are set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, Who, by the power that enables Him to subject all things to Himself, will transform our lowly bodies to be like His glorious body. Phil. 3:19-21 (BSB)

Now therefore you are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God. Eph. 2:19 (KJV)

All these were still living by faith when they died. They did not received the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance, admitting that they were foreigners and strangers on earth. Hebs 11:13 (NIV)

If you then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sits on the right hand of God. Set your affections on things above, not on things on the earth. Cols 3:1-2 (KJV)

Citizenship: Stongs #4175 Greek word: Politeuma (root word “Polites”) Politics in English is derived from the Greek root word Polis meaning city and Polites citizens

To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God's creation. Rev. 3:14 (NIV)

Laodicea: Strongs #2993 From a compound of Greek words: laos and dike.

Laos: Strongs #2992 people (in general)

Dike: Strongs #1349 right (as self-evident), i.e. justice

Therefore the literal translation of Laodicea would be Rights of the People.

Over the past few years, I have observed, more and more, those who identify themselves as Christians becoming political - especially, in the United States. They have justified their militant spirit by using verses of Scripture about a “righteous nation”. It doesn't seem to matter what “side of the aisle” they sit on (meaning whether they are Democrat or Republican). I have very good friends who identify as Republicans and other close friends who identify as Democrat.

There was a time in my life that I felt like I should vote. I did it feeling that it was the “Right thing to do”. However, looking back, I realize that God is the One Who “Sets kings up and brings kings down.” He is the One Who puts government leaders in office. In the United States, we celebrate many freedoms, however, I realize that there are leaders in other nations that have committed unspeakable acts. Why did God allow them to be in office? I cannot answer that.

I believe God even allowed communistic governments to rise for His purposes. But what those purposes are, I cannot always say. This is where our faith is very important – even when we cannot see or rationalize (especially when we cannot rationalize!) God is at work. He is allowing these things to happen. The Apostle Paul wrote to the Romans: And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28. He told the Thessalonians: In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

 

So then, what is our responsibility, as Christians? I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people--for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior,who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4 We are to pray for our leaders “All those in authority”. It doesn't matter if we agree with them are not. Jesus commanded us to love our enemies and to pray for them. We are to BLESS those who curse us. Many say, “But I have to condemn sin.” Jesus has already done that. Sure we must hate ungodliness and unrighteousness, but we must remember that sin is what sinners do. How can we be a witness for the Lord when we are more politically minded than we are heavenly minded.

Have we read the book of Revelations? What about Paul's word to Timothy about the last days? Have we read that? All that we see happening is written before our time, for our admonition. Why are we fighting against it. Instead of fighting the sinners over politics, we should be declaring the love of God, that Jesus is coming back. Look at what Jude wrote: keep yourselves in God's love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life. Be merciful to those who doubt; save others by snatching them from the fire; to others show mercy, mixed with fear--hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh. To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy Jude 21-24

Therefore, it behooves us as Christian believers to put our shoulder to the plow, pray for our leaders and all those in authority, praying for all men and women, boys and girls, old and young alike, believing for the salvation of the nations. We know that there are those who will not receive His salvation, but it is not our job to divide the sheep from the goats or the fish from the other unclean creatures that get caught in the net. It's our job to preach the gospel and cast the net. He will direct it. And His Will shall be accomplished in the earth.