Christians have always struggled to maintain a spiritual mindset, often getting caught up in worldly pursuits and losing sight of their heavenly citizenship. This conflict can lead to a host of spiritual and practical problems, hindering their effectiveness as ambassadors of Christ’s kingdom on Earth.
The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, addresses the issue of believers who are “minding earthly things.” These individuals, likely the Judaizers and their followers, are ensnared in legalism and earthly rituals, neglecting the transformative power of Christ’s sacrifice on the Cross (Philippians 3:18–19). Paul weeps not for his circumstances but for those who profess Christ yet live contrary to the Gospel’s teachings.
To resolve this problem, we must understand what it means to have a “spiritual mind.” Contrary to misconceptions, being spiritually minded does not make one impractical or detached from the world. Instead, it equips believers with clarity of thought and efficiency in action. It means viewing earthly matters through heaven’s lens, seeking the things above, and making decisions grounded in eternal values (Colossians 3:1–3). It’s about living as citizens of heaven while still fulfilling our earthly responsibilities.
Our heavenly citizenship, as described in Philippians 3:20, should transform our lives. Like a colony of heaven on Earth, the Church should exhibit characteristics that reflect our heavenly identity. We are not meant to conform to worldly standards but to live as lights in the darkness, showcasing the Gospel’s transformative power.
The consequence of failing to live with a spiritual mind is clear: we become entangled in worldly pursuits, forfeiting the eternal blessings promised to us. Like Lot, who chose earthly pleasures and lost everything, we risk squandering our heavenly inheritance for fleeting worldly gains (Mark 8:36). To neglect our spiritual citizenship is to miss the abundant life Christ offers, so remember:
Engraved in the Eternal Scrolls of Heaven: Just as citizenship in Philippi held great significance, our spiritual citizenship is a profound privilege. When we trust in Christ, our names are inscribed in the Book of Life (Philippians 4:3). This assurance secures our entry into heaven, much like presenting a valid passport for entry into a foreign land.
Conversing in the Divine Dialect of Heaven: A spiritually-minded Christian speaks of spiritual matters and communicates with grace and edification. Our speech should reflect our heavenly citizenship, speaking words that minister grace to others (Colossians 4:6; Ephesians 4:29). Our speech reveals the essence of our spiritual affiliation.
Devoted to the Supreme Mission of Heaven: The Cross of Jesus Christ is central to the Gospel and is the ultimate evidence of God’s love and judgment on sin. The Judaizers, considered “enemies of the Cross of Christ,” clung to obsolete rituals and carnal ordinances (Colossians 2:10–13). In contrast, true believers glory in the Cross, recognizing it as the source of their salvation.
Eagerly Awaiting the Arrival of Our Heavenly King: Living in anticipation of Christ’s return provides a powerful motivation for faithful living. Just as Abraham, Moses, and Jesus looked to the future, we, too, should eagerly await the return of our Savior (Philippians 3:20–21). Our heavenly citizenship should shape our priorities, emphasizing matters of eternal significance and living with “eternity’s values in view” (1 John 2:17).
In conclusion, as citizens of heaven residing on Earth, let us aspire to be spiritually minded, rooted in eternal truths, and unwavering in our devotion to Christ. Our heavenly citizenship is not an abstract concept but a transformative reality that should impact every aspect of our lives. May we live as beacons of light in a world that desperately needs the hope and truth in the Gospel.
~PW 🌮🛶
Phillip W. Martin 
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