“For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” Colossians 3:3
After encouraging his readers to pursue Christ instead of false teachers (2:1-23), the apostle Paul admonishes them to “seek” and “set” their minds “on things above” – namely “Christ” who is seated “at the right hand of God” in a position of power and authority (3:1-2). The reason for this is because they “died” with Christ spiritually when the Holy Spirit joined them to His death and resurrection at the moment of faith in Him for salvation (3:3a; cf. 2:12-13; Rom. 6:3-4; I Cor. 12:13; Gal. 3:27; Ephes. 1:13). And now their “life is hidden with Christ in God” so that they are safe and secure forever (3:3b).
Rather than focus on the temporary things of this earth (i.e. philosophies, possessions, pleasures, popularity, and power, etc.) to give us a sense of safety and security, we are to seek and think about heaven where our lives are “hidden with Christ in God.” Just as we would hide something of value in a safe place, so God has hidden us with Christ so that no one can steal us away from Him. No one can snatch us out of Jesus’ hands (John 10:28-29)! We are hidden and safe with the Lord. No one and nothing can separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 8:38-39)! Therefore, I do not need to gain a sense of safety and security through the things of this earth because I am already safe and secure forever with Christ. Knowing this amazing truth causes me to prepare for that day when I will “appear with Him in glory” (3:4).
Prayer: Father God forgive me for expending so much energy trying to protect myself or gain a sense of security from the temporary things of this earth. Help me to focus my thoughts on things above where I am hidden with Christ in God. Thank You that I am safe and secure forever with the Lord Jesus. Knowing this motivates me to draw closer to Him and live for that day when I will appear with Him in glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen.