Pain to Peace: A Man's Path Past PitfallsSample

Day 5: Setting Your Heart on Things Above

Scripture: Colossians 3:1-2 (NIV)
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.

My heart attack was the best worst thing that ever happened to me. Sounds crazy, but it forced me to stop chasing the four traps that had me running in circles—performance, passion, position, and possessions. Lying in that hospital bed, I realized I'd been living like a man possessed instead of a man free in Christ. Colossians 3:1-2 became my lifeline, reminding me that I'm already raised with Christ, which means I don't have to earn my way to significance.

Here's what "setting your heart on things above" actually looks like for a regular guy: it means your identity comes from Jesus, not your job performance. It means your hobbies serve relationships instead of replacing them. It means you lead by serving instead of positioning. It means you hold your stuff loosely instead of letting it hold you tightly.

The world will always pressure us to chase the next achievement, the next pleasure, the next promotion, the next purchase. That's not going to change. But we can change how we respond to that pressure. We can choose to live like men who know who we are and whose we are.

After my heart attack, I made some real changes. No emails after 7 PM. One full day off each week. Regular time with Jesus that doesn't have an agenda. My family grew closer, my ministry got deeper, and my joy came back. A buddy of mine saw the change and started a men's group focused on Colossians 3:1-2. They meet monthly to help each other stay focused on what actually matters instead of what the world says should matter.

Your Move: Look back over the past four days and identify which trap gives you the most trouble. Write a prayer based on Colossians 3:1-2, asking God to help you set your heart on things above instead of earthly things. Then share one thing you've learned with someone you care about—your wife, a friend, your kids. Sometimes the best way to cement a truth in your own heart is to speak it into someone else's life.

If this devotional has helped you navigate some tough terrain, you're not alone in the journey. Life throws us curveballs that can feel overwhelming—loss, transitions, unexpected changes that shake everything we thought we knew. I've spent over 35 years walking alongside men and families through grief and difficult seasons, and I'd love to connect with you.

Check out www.griefbites.orgfor daily encouragement, practical wisdom, and resources designed for real people facing real struggles. Whether you're dealing with loss, major life changes, or just need someone who understands the weight of living authentically, you'll find hope and practical help there.

Remember, you don't have to walk this path alone.