Setting Your Mind on Things Above – Verses Related to Colossians 3:2
Colossians 3:2 says:
Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. (KJV)
This verse is a call to focus on eternal priorities instead of temporary distractions. Many other Bible passages reinforce this principle, showing how God’s people should live with heaven in view.
Matthew 6:19-21 – Storing Treasures in Heaven
Jesus teaches that true wealth is not found in material possessions but in what lasts forever.
Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. (KJV)
This aligns with Colossians 3:2 by shifting our focus away from earthly gain toward eternal rewards.
Philippians 3:20 – Our Citizenship Is in Heaven
Paul reminds believers that their true home is not in this world.
For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ. (KJV)
Living with this mindset helps us prioritize what matters to God rather than being consumed by worldly matters.
2 Corinthians 4:18 – Fixing Our Eyes on the Unseen
Paul contrasts the temporary nature of earthly things with the permanence of the spiritual.
While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. (KJV)
This teaches us that what is unseen—God’s promises, His kingdom—should capture our attention.
Romans 12:2 – Renewing the Mind
A renewed mind helps us stay focused on God’s will rather than conforming to worldly patterns.
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (KJV)
Spiritual transformation begins in our thoughts, which ties closely to “setting your mind on things above.”
Hebrews 12:1-2 – Looking Unto Jesus
Our example is Christ, who endured the cross for the joy set before Him.
Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. (KJV)
Keeping our eyes on Him keeps us from being weighed down by earthly distractions.
Summary Table of Related Verses
| Verse Reference | Main Focus | How It Relates to Colossians 3:2 |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 6:19-21 | Treasures in heaven | Focus on eternal rather than earthly riches |
| Philippians 3:20 | Citizenship in heaven | Reminds us our true home is not here |
| 2 Corinthians 4:18 | Eternal vs. temporary | Teaches us to value unseen, eternal things |
| Romans 12:2 | Renewed mind | Helps us think according to God’s will |
| Hebrews 12:1-2 | Focus on Jesus | Keeps our eyes on the ultimate goal |
Click to Learn More about Colossians 3:2, Meaning
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