February 3

Therefore, since you have been raised with Christ, strive for the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. — Col 3:1 BSB

Many who wish to fear God are still held down by the world. The world hasn’t lost its pull on them; they’re caught up in business, relationships, or other worldly engagements. Their business partners, family members, social circles, strong desires, or deep-rooted habits all tie them down to earthly things. They live in what Milton called “the smoke and stir of this dim spot which men call earth,” and they’re so entangled in their sins that they rarely seek deliverance or even desire to rise above the fog of this world into a clearer, heavenly atmosphere.

But if they are truly part of Christ’s body, they will not remain trapped in worldliness. Just as Christ could not be held by death, they too will not be buried in the grave of carnality. If they have shared in Christ’s resurrection, they must also experience the power of His resurrection.