How Colossians 3:2 Can Help Us Focus on God

Have you ever found yourself stuck in a cycle of negative thinking? 

Maybe it’s that nagging feeling of self-doubt that keeps creeping in, or the overwhelming worry about the future that makes it hard to focus on today. 

We’ve all been there, and it can feel impossible to break free from those thoughts. 

But what if I told you that the Bible offers us a practical and powerful way to overcome negative thinking? It does—and Colossians 3:2 gives us the key.

Colossians 3:2 says, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” 

This simple verse is packed with wisdom, reminding us that our focus should be on God and His eternal truth, rather than the temporary worries and stresses of life. 

But how do we actually do this, especially when negative thoughts seem to flood our minds? 

Let’s dive into how Colossians 3:2 can help us transform our thought patterns and live with a mind set on things above.

(You can download a printable version of this devotional at the bottom of the page.)

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Understanding the Power of Focus

The first thing to realize is that where we choose to focus our minds has a huge impact on how we think, feel, and live.

Colossians 3:2 encourages us to intentionally set our minds on “things above.” 

What does this mean? It means directing our thoughts toward God’s promises, His character, and the eternal hope we have in Christ, rather than dwelling on the problems and pressures of this world.

Let’s face it—negative thoughts tend to pull us into a downward spiral. 

They take small worries and turn them into big fears. They cause us to focus on what we lack, rather than what we have. 

They make us believe lies about ourselves, rather than the truth of who we are in Christ. 

But Colossians 3:2 reminds us that we have the power to shift our focus. We can choose to set our minds on what is good, true, and life-giving.

Imagine this: you’re walking through a foggy valley, and all you can see are the dark clouds around you. It feels like the fog will never lift. 

But then, you look up—and above the fog, you see the sun shining brightly. The fog is still there, but your perspective has shifted. 

You know the sun is above it, and suddenly, the fog doesn’t seem so overwhelming anymore.

That’s what happens when we set our minds on things above. 

The fog of negative thinking may still try to linger, but when we focus on God’s truth, we realize there’s something greater than the fog—we have a God who is bigger than our fears and more powerful than any negative thought.

Recognizing Earthly Distractions

Colossians 3:2 also calls us to turn away from “earthly things.” But what exactly are these earthly things? 

They are the distractions, worries, and temptations that pull our focus away from God. 

Negative thoughts often stem from these distractions—whether it’s comparing ourselves to others on social media, stressing over our future plans, or feeling insecure about our abilities.

When we allow ourselves to be consumed by these earthly things, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. 

We start to believe that our worth is based on our achievements or how others view us, rather than on the fact that we are deeply loved by God. 

We begin to focus on our problems, rather than on the God who holds the solution.

The reality is, the world is full of distractions that try to fill our minds with negativity. But here’s the good news: we don’t have to let those distractions control us. 

Colossians 3:2 offers us a better way. 

It calls us to rise above the noise and set our minds on things that last—things like God’s love, His faithfulness, and the eternal hope we have in Him.

Shifting from Negative Thoughts to God’s Truth

Now, let’s talk about how to actually make this shift from negative thinking to focusing on God’s truth. 

It’s not always easy, especially when negative thoughts feel like they’re on repeat in your mind. But it’s possible—and with God’s help, it’s life-changing.

Here are a few practical steps to help you set your mind on things above:

Identify the Negative Thought

The first step in transforming your thinking is to recognize when a negative thought enters your mind. 

Often, we let negative thoughts slip in without even realizing it. Maybe it’s a thought like, “I’m not good enough,” or “I’ll never get through this.” 

These thoughts are not from God, and they need to be addressed.

Once you identify the negative thought, you can take action. Don’t let it linger. 

Remember, you have the power to change the direction of your thinking.

Replace the Negative Thought with Scripture

This is where the power of God’s Word comes in. 

When a negative thought enters your mind, replace it with a verse from the Bible that speaks truth into your situation

For example, if you’re feeling overwhelmed with fear, turn to Isaiah 41:10, which says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” 

God’s Word is full of promises that remind us of who He is and who we are in Him.

By replacing negative thoughts with scripture, you are filling your mind with truth instead of lies. And the more you do this, the more natural it will become.

Focus on What Is Eternal

One of the best ways to set your mind on things above is to focus on what is eternal, rather than what is temporary. 

Negative thoughts often arise from focusing too much on the here and now—our problems, our worries, and the things we can’t control. 

But when we shift our focus to God’s eternal promises, we gain a new perspective.

For example, instead of worrying about your future, focus on the truth that God has a plan for your life, and He is in control (Jeremiah 29:11). 

Instead of dwelling on your mistakes, focus on the fact that you are forgiven and made new in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).

When we focus on what is eternal, it reminds us that our current struggles are temporary, and that God’s love and promises are forever.

Create New Thought Patterns

Transforming your thinking takes time, but with practice, it becomes easier. 

One way to create new thought patterns is by making it a daily habit to meditate on God’s Word. 

Whether it’s starting your day with scripture, writing down verses that speak to you, or praying for God to help you focus on His truth, these small steps can lead to big changes in your thought life.

Over time, you’ll find that you’re quicker to recognize negative thoughts, and more equipped to replace them with God’s truth. 

Your mind will naturally start to focus on things above, rather than being dragged down by earthly distractions.

Living in Victory Over Negative Thoughts

When you start to live with your mind set on things above, something incredible happens—you begin to live in victory over negative thoughts. 

No longer are you defined by fear, doubt, or insecurity. Instead, you are defined by the truth of who you are in Christ: loved, chosen, forgiven, and more than a conqueror through Him.

This doesn’t mean you’ll never struggle with negative thoughts again. We all face moments of doubt and worry. 

But with Colossians 3:2 as your guide, you’ll have the tools to fight back. You’ll know that you don’t have to stay stuck in a cycle of negative thinking. 

You have the power, through God’s Spirit, to set your mind on things above and experience peace, hope, and joy.

Reflection Questions:

  1. What types of negative thoughts tend to dominate your mind, and how do they affect your emotions, actions, and relationship with God?
  2. How does Colossians 3:2 challenge the way you currently approach your thought life? Are you more focused on earthly things or things above?
  3. In what ways do you think your life would change if you consistently set your mind on God’s truth rather than on your fears or insecurities?
  4. When you experience negative thoughts, how often do you turn to scripture or prayer to shift your focus? Why or why not?
  5. How has focusing on worldly worries or distractions held you back from living in the fullness of God’s peace and joy?

Practical Application Questions:

  1. What specific scriptures can you meditate on this week to replace negative thoughts with God’s truth (e.g., Colossians 3:2, Philippians 4:8)?
  2. How can you create a daily routine that includes time for prayer and reflection to intentionally set your mind on things above?
  3. What steps can you take to quickly recognize negative thoughts and immediately replace them with scripture or prayer?
  4. What external influences (such as social media or conversations) contribute to your negative thinking, and how can you limit or adjust these influences?
  5. Who can you reach out to for accountability or encouragement as you work to conquer negative thoughts and live with your mind set on God’s promises?

Be sure to download a printable version of this devotional with the reflection questions to keep handy in your study binder!

If studying the Bible better is on your list of things to do this year, be sure to visit our Bible Study Resources page where you’ll find everything you need to make Bible study a regular part of your daily routine.

Reflection

Transforming negative thoughts isn’t just about thinking more positively—it’s about aligning your thoughts with God’s truth. 

Colossians 3:2 reminds us that we have the power to choose where we focus our minds. 

We can either dwell on the distractions and negativity of this world, or we can set our minds on things above, where God’s love, peace, and hope reign.

As you go through your day, remember that you don’t have to be controlled by negative thoughts. 

With God’s help, you can rise above them. Set your mind on things above, and watch how it transforms not only your thinking but your entire life.

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