Slideshow image

In our walk of faith, we often find ourselves navigating through various paths - some winding through forests, others scaling mountains, and occasionally, weathering fierce storms. Amidst these journeys, it's easy to lose sight of our true direction. But what if the key to staying on course isn't about avoiding life's turbulence, but rather about maintaining our focus on the right destination?

Imagine standing in a vast field of snow, surrounded by swirling winds and blinding flurries. In such moments, a single post becomes our lifeline, a fixed point guiding us home. This post represents Jesus Christ, the author and perfecter of our faith. Regardless of the chaos around us, keeping our eyes fixed on Him ensures we don't lose our way.

This imagery beautifully illustrates a profound truth: we are called to live FROM our position in Christ, not constantly striving to attain it. It's a subtle but transformative shift in perspective that can revolutionize our spiritual journey.

The book of Colossians offers a rich tapestry of insights into this truth. If you find yourself grappling with sin, destructive mindsets, or spiritual confusion, immersing yourself in Colossians for a couple of weeks can be incredibly enlightening. Let's delve into some key passages that illuminate our position in Christ:

Colossians 2:6-15 lays a crucial foundation. It establishes the deity of Christ, reminding us that in Him, all the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily. With this divine nature comes supreme authority - Christ is the head over every power and authority, including the spiritual forces of evil.

This passage paints a vivid picture of Christ's triumph over darkness. Like a Roman conqueror parading defeated foes through the streets, Jesus has disarmed the rulers and authorities of the demonic realm, utterly defeating Satan himself. This victory isn't just a historical event; it's a present reality that directly impacts our lives.

But what does this mean for us personally? Colossians reveals that our position in Christ is one of profound transformation and freedom:

1. We have been spiritually circumcised, with our old sinful nature cut away (v.11).
2. We have been made alive with Christ, forgiven of all our sins (v.13).
3. The record of charges against us has been canceled, nailed to the cross (v.14).

Picture this cancellation like a traffic ticket. Normally, you'd be in possession of that ticket, obligated to pay the fine. But in Christ, that ticket has been taken and nailed to the wall - rendered completely invalid. The debt has been paid in full.

Living from this position of victory and forgiveness transforms how we face life's challenges. When difficulties arise or temptation knocks at our door, we must remind ourselves of these truths. As the Psalmist says, "Why are you downcast, O my soul? Put your hope in God!"

Colossians 3:1-3 offers practical guidance for maintaining this Christ-centered perspective:

"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. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God."

We are called to continually seek heavenly things, fostering a deep, internal desire for the things of God. This isn't about fleeing from the world, but rather about anchoring our identity and purpose in our relationship with Christ. We're invited to let the knowledge of our position in God's family sink deep into our hearts, becoming the foundation from which we live.

Think of it as fostering a spiritual addiction - much like how some people can't start their day without coffee. We need to cultivate a hunger for God's presence and truth that becomes an essential part of our daily lives.

This shift in perspective is transformative. When we truly grasp our position in Christ, we begin to see:

1. Greater victory in our personal lives
2. A deeper understanding of God's grace
3. A more grateful and joy-filled existence

The key is to stop living from a human mindset that says we can control everything. Instead, we embrace statements like:
- "Because I'm a child of God..."
- "Because Christ has destroyed the power of the enemy..."
- "Because I'm seated with Him in heavenly places..."
- "Because I'm part of the family of God..."

We live from this revelation, not striving to attain it.

Practically speaking, this means filling our minds with Scripture, setting these truths as if in concrete. Even when our feelings don't align with the reality of our position in Christ, we choose to stand firm in what we know to be true.

This heavenly perspective transforms how we respond to life:
- Praise instead of cursing
- Thankfulness instead of anger
- Compassion instead of judgment

It's far easier to cultivate these Christ-like responses when our gaze is fixed upward rather than inward.

A word of caution: we cannot rely on worldly wisdom or philosophies to gain victory over fear, lust, addictions, or unforgiveness. These battles are ultimately spiritual, and they require spiritual weapons. Our greatest strategy is to continually remind ourselves of what Christ has accomplished on our behalf.

Reading through the Bible, meditating on who we are in Christ, and embracing our new life in Him will prove far more effective than attempting to conquer our struggles through sheer willpower. We cannot defeat the enemy in our own strength, but we can live victoriously because Jesus has already won the battle.

As we journey through life's varied landscapes - be they lush forests, rugged mountains, or storm-tossed seas - may we keep our eyes fixed on the unshakeable truth of our position in Christ. From this vantage point, we can navigate any terrain with confidence, knowing that our lives are hidden with Christ in God. This is the path of true freedom, joy, and transformative power. Let us live from this place of victory, for it is already ours in Christ Jesus.