Introduction
As believers, we are citizens of Heaven even while living on Earth. Our lives should reflect the priorities and values of our heavenly home. This doesn’t mean escaping the realities of life, but embracing them with a heavenly perspective, showing others what it means to belong to God.
Today, we’ll explore what it means to live as citizens of Heaven, keeping our eyes on eternal treasures rather than earthly ones.
Scripture Focus
- Philippians 3:20-21: “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.”
- Matthew 6:19-21: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
- Colossians 3:1-4: “If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.”
Psalm Reflection
Psalm 73:25-26:
“Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”
This psalm reminds us to desire God above all else, knowing that He is our ultimate treasure and strength.
Living with Eternal Perspective
Paul reminds us in Philippians 3:20-21 that we belong to Heaven, not Earth. This means our lives should reflect Heaven’s values: love, grace, and holiness. Our hope is in the coming transformation when Christ returns, but even now, we are called to live in anticipation of that day.
In Matthew 6:19-21, Jesus warns us about the dangers of earthly treasures. These things are temporary and can easily be lost. Instead, He invites us to invest in eternal treasures—acts of love, service, and faith that honor God.
Setting Your Mind on Things Above
Living as a citizen of Heaven begins with the heart and mind. Paul urges us in Colossians 3:1-4 to seek the things above, where Christ is. This doesn’t mean ignoring earthly responsibilities, but prioritizing eternal ones. When Christ is our focus, we live with purpose and peace, even in difficult times.
Life Application
- Examine Your Priorities: What treasures are you storing up? Reflect on Matthew 6:19-21 and consider how you can invest more in eternal things.
- Cultivate a Heavenly Mindset: Meditate on Colossians 3:1-2. What does it mean for you to set your mind on things above in your daily life?
- Be a Light to Others: Let your heavenly citizenship shine in the way you treat others. Ask God to help you reflect His love and grace to those around you.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for making me a citizen of Heaven. Help me to live with an eternal perspective, valuing what matters most and letting go of what doesn’t. Teach me to reflect Your love and truth to others, showing them the hope of Heaven through my life. Amen.
Closing Thought
We are Heaven’s ambassadors on Earth, called to live in a way that points others to God. As we align our hearts and minds with Christ, we can live with joy, purpose, and anticipation of our eternal home.