The Cross-Centered Life (#267 of 365+)

“Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died,
and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming” (Colossians 3:1-6)

Joni’s friend, C. J. Mahaney, teaches practical ways to put to death our old ways so we can live the victorious Christian life we’re meant for. This can be accomplished when we “preach the gospel to ourselves,” “memorize the gospel,” “pray the gospel,” “sing the gospel,” and “study the gospel.” In other words, center every single day of my life on the gospel of Christ.

My daily devotional is a good way to keep the gospel in my heart and on my mind—at least for part of the day. But as Joni said I should be careful to “never be content with [my] current grasp of the gospel.” Why? Because my flesh is in a daily struggle with the Holy Spirit. As my heart and mind tend to stray towards worldly things the Spirit is constantly working to bring my focus back to eternal matters. Choosing Christ-centered activities, media, and music—and praying for the Lord to help me!—is a good way for me to submit to God and align myself with his kingdom.

Lord, this world has nothing to offer that’s worth taking my eyes off you. Draw me closer to your heart. May I live a cross-centered day today and every day. Amen.