Too Heavenly Minded for Any Earthly Good?

In the World…

• Can a Christian be more effective by paying attention to world events?
• Should we ignore what is going on in the world and just focus on God?

Simplistic questions as these will never get helpful responses, but I thought they may capture our attention to what really matters. At the time of writing this, there is an impeachment process going on in the United States and violent protests going on in Hong Kong.

This article is not intended to address these issues, but it may very well give us exactly what we need.

Too Heavenly Minded?

I don’t know if you have heard the phrase, “too heavenly minded for earthly good.” The intent of this phrase is that the person’s head is in the clouds and ignoring the real-world problems. It suggests that this person has nothing to offer to help move the issues to resolution.

For the most part, this is true of Christians. In an attempt to be bi-partisan or impartial, we pull ourselves out of the conversation. Is this what God has called us into when He sent us out to disciple nations (Matthew 28:19)? A peacemaker is not passively on the sidelines watching everything unfold, but actively engages the conversation to bring love into every relationship.

Where to Start?

As Christians, we are given specific instructions. First and foremost, in every situation, we are to set our minds on things above, not on earthly things (Colossians 3:2). Paul exhorts us that the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:25). Therefore, we are to allow God to transform our minds and interpret every situation we face.

Too often we get our thoughts from the media or other influencers. They may have an accurate view of what’s going on, and they may not. But those informing our views are getting us into a frenzy, worried about what may happen. This fear may help them gain viewers, but it’s not the view God has on the world.

Think on Such Things

We are commissioned to think on whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8). God is not distraught in the affairs of the world; He always has hope. Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning (Psalm 30:5). If we are filled with worry, anger, fear, or belittling others over situations, we are not getting God’s perspective.

Don’t let the sun go down on your anger… and then give the devil a foothold (Ephesians 4:26-27). And over all these virtues, put on love (Colossians 3:14). With everything that we see, we need to choose to maintain God’s perspective. How we feel thinking about the world events, reveal whether we have God’s perspective.

Should We Have an Opinion?

Do I have an opinion on what is going on the world’s stage? Absolutely. Would communicating those views add clarity to these situations? Maybe.

However, I believe God has called me specifically to encourage people to connect with God for themselves. Not only does He have perfect knowledge and understanding, He loves you completely. He can address your fears and strengthen your heart. A connection with Him will proved much more healing to the overall situation.

Should this be every Christians view? Absolutely not. God has called some of you to speak out. For now, my calling is to encourage you to seek God and help you know you don’t have His perspective if it is not leading you to hope and love.

Focus on God and what He says is true. If it doesn’t match your experience, still focus on what He says is true. For we walk by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). This will lead to your greatest joy – communion with Him.