Three Ways You Can Become More Spiritual
by Matthew Allen

How can you become more spiritually minded? In today's world, becoming more spiritual can certainly be a challenge. Look around. Everywhere, the emphasis is on things that do not last. What will you choose? The spiritual or the physical?

Remember this life offers two distinct choices. You can choose God. Or, you can decide to go your own way. "For those who are according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who are according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace, because the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, for it is not even able to do so, and those who are in the flesh cannot please God" (Romans 8:5-8).

Did you see the vivid contrast between two basic attitudes as you read that passage? One leads to life, the other to death. There is no middle road. They each end at two distinct places. A fleshly mindset leads to spiritual death. The spiritual mindset leads to life and peace. How can you become more spiritual?

Let God's Word direct your life. Are you filled with the Spirit? See Ephesians 5:18. Is it your goal to be "filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding?" This is necessary so you can "walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God" (Colossians 1:9-10).

Eliminate things which will hamper your development as a Christian. A commitment to strengthening love for spiritual things will involve the need to say "no." To what? Anything that directs you to embrace "empty, deceitful philosophies that is according to human tradition and the elemental spirits of the world" (Colossians 2:8). Instead, focus on "whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things" (Philippians 4:8).

Develop a love for doing spiritual things. Whether it be worship, studying the Bible, or sharing the gospel with someone; develop a passion for serving God! Make time for the spiritual. Don't give God the leftovers. If you allow your spiritual service to dwindle, you will quickly wonder why you dread all the things that should fill your life with joy.

There is not one thing in this life worth keeping your soul out of heaven! All the things the flesh exalts: status, worldly knowledge, wealth, and material possessions will mean nothing after this life. 

"If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth" (Colossians 3:1-2).

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