Hidden, Don’t Seek

Text: Colossians 3:1-4 Theme: Because our lives are hidden in Christ, we should stay hidden. Key verses: “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above…” (v. 1) “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died and your life is now hidden with Christ in God…Christ…is your life…” (v. 2-4) What God said to me: Dwayne, why do you fret and concern yourself with things you should not control? Why do you focus on issues and interests in your life more than you focus on me? Do you not understand that your life is now my life? I am living my life through you. Your life is engulfed in mine. You are literally hidden away, and I am in your stead. Now, this is not a place many ever dare to go – this secret hiding place. Most would read this and not understand or relate to it. Some would even react in revolt to such an idea. They don’t understand that losing their own life and surrendering to mine is in their best interest. Your every breath, your every move, your every decision is controlled by me. Why is that so good and healthy and desirable for you? It is because I made the heavens and the earth. I am all-sovereign, all-knowing, all-powerful God. What I say goes. And I assure you I won’t walk through this life in anything but perfection. And when you are in me, you too can walk in confidence, righteousness, wisdom, godliness and peace. Dwayne, be careful that you do not become too focused on your next opportunity ahead and on all your goals for your ministry and your family. Goals are good and planning and dreaming ahead are important. However, I am your life. And nothing in my – formerly your – life happens unless I say so, and nothing falls by the wayside if I want it to come to pass. Accept that fact by faith. Rest in it – rest in me. Even the good and wholesome endeavors on this earth are still of this earth; they are “earthly things.” Don’t seek after them; seek after me. The best in life comes when you die to this life and hide away in me. What I said to God: Holy Lord and protecting Father, I gladly accept my hidden status! I am incredibly humbled and marveled that You would hide me away and become my life. How freeing! How exciting! How comforting… Praise You, precious Jesus, my life, my all. Forgive me when I lose sight of your control and total absorbtion of my earthly being. I do see how I have been placing more focus on upcoming events and goals and rewards than on simply resting and waiting on You everyday. I acknowledge my helplessness to control my future. Where we live, where I go, who I meet and what I accomplish – all these earthly things I commit to You, my complete and total and wonderful Life.