Tag: earthly

To Set My Heart and Mind on Things Above

Lord God,
You direct me to set my heart and my mind on things above, and not on earthy things. One of the most effective ways to keep me from an unhealthy focus on earthly things is to prioritize redirecting my desires and thoughts on things above. My desires and thoughts are closely connected, so that whatever fills my thoughts also increases my desire, and what I desire then directs my thoughts.

Therefore, let your Spirit dwell in me richly to control both my thoughts and desires, so that they nurture and complement each other. Lead me to seek your spiritual blessings and to crave more fruits of faith in my life. Help me to treasure the work you do in me that serves my eternal good. Create not only a longing for my heavenly home, but an awareness of how my time here on earth helps prepare me for eternity. Align my desires with yours and my thoughts with yours, as much as possible.

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. 

To Not Get Caught Up in Worldly Concerns

Dear Lord,
You direct me to set my heart and my mind on things above, and not on earthy things. It is so natural for me to give my attention to the things of this world. When my daily schedule involves so many things that deal with the here and now, those are the things I focus on. Problems need solving. Tasks need to be accomplished. People need to be pleased. Like Martha, I get caught up in prioritizing all of these responsibilities and obligations and you become an afterthought.

In addition to being so preoccupied with these types of concerns, which are not inherently wrong, I am also daily tempted by plenty of earthly things that are plain and simply just sinful. Guard my heart from both – from being consumed by earthly concerns and being courted by earthly temptations. Remind me that you are the one in control who oversees all things and equips me to carry out my daily responsibilities, and that you also promise me a way out when I am tempted.

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.