3 Ways to Set Your Affections on Things Above
Monday, January 26, 2026 by Melissa McLaughlin

By Melissa McLaughlin

Setting Our Sights on the Goal

With bright smiles, full water bottles, and tightly laced sneakers, our family set off for our destination, “Buttermilk Falls.” The state park listed the trail as “moderate” with some rocky areas and inclines. Despite the possible challenges, the description of sparkling falls flowing down over mountainous terrain called to our hearts.

Besides, doesn’t the name “Buttermilk Falls” sound like a lovely walk in the woods?

We agreed this trail would be worth a small challenge.

After a gentle slope upward, we rounded a sharp bend in the trail. Before us lay jagged boulders jutting out across a steep incline. Our expected walking hike had morphed into a rocky expedition.

We slowed our pace, stopping frequently to catch our breath and judiciously sip our water, unsure how long this hike would take. We leaned against rocks to rest. Beads of sweat rolled down our faces, while sighs, giggles, and even a few tears seeped out. We now realized this trail was more than we bargained for.

Our feet trudged on, and our faces clenched. “How much longer?” we grumbled to each other.

We lifted our eyes to the crest of the mountain. “If we can just make it to that tree near the top,” we encouraged each other.

One step after another, we dragged ourselves onward and upward. Glancing up and setting our sights on the goal.

“Don’t give up!” our sons shouted, having pushed on to the high point. “Once you make it up here, the view is incredible.”

My daughters and I urged our shaky legs forward. After a final heave, we stretched our legs onto a wooded plateau area near the mountain’s summit.

Fresh spring water burst from the mountainside and gushed over rocks with joyful splashes. Like a child laughing all the way down a swirling water slide.

We leaned over and cupped our hands, sloshing the crisp, cool water to our lips. Swallowing deeply, we tasted crystal-clear refreshment, revitalizing our bodies and souls. We felt like battle-weary warriors who had fought hard and won a glorious victory.

The trail to “Buttermilk Falls” was formidable. Much more difficult than we imagined. But it was also worth the effort.

The memory of this family hike caused me to think about our journey through life and, as Christians, our desire to follow our Savior.

Setting Our Sights on Jesus

When we first choose to follow Christ, we cannot imagine the difficulties we will face. Both in the earthly and spiritual realms. Maybe you are going through a rough patch right now. Perhaps you are battling illness, financial or relational strains, spiritual valleys, anxiety due to the world’s chaos, or personal disappointments that knock you breathless.

We may wonder and call out, “God, where are you? I need you.”

During good times and tough times, may we seek the Holy Spirit to reset our vision and reframe our thought-patterns, as we meditate on God’s Word, the unchanging truth.

First, we remember that following Christ is not a cakewalk.

Jesus is Our Destination

In John 16:33 (NIV), Jesus reminds us, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Jesus does not promise us a life without pain. However, Jesus does promise His victorious presence, comfort, and encouragement—to the end (Matthew 28:20).

But how do we get through each day when we encounter obstacles, suffering, or hardships that appear beyond our strength?

Here are 3 ways to lift our eyes from life’s rocky path and set our affections on things above.

3 Ways to Set Your Affections on Things Above

1.Take one step at a time. Resist trying to see the miles of treacherous trail before you. Ask God to show you the next thing to do. And do that one thing. Then the next thing. And the next thing. Enjoy taking small steps, hand in hand with your Father.

2.Pause to rest. When the road is strewn with heavy rocks that cause you to stumble or wear you out, take time to rest. Rest your physical body. And rest in the Lord. Turn on the worship music. Listen to audio readings of the Psalms. Invite the Holy Spirit to infuse you with strength and refreshment from on high.

3.Remember what’s up ahead. Ask God to renew your vision of heaven. Reread Scripture passages that describe heaven or the glory, majesty, and holiness of God. Invite the Holy Spirit to help you make a mental picture of these divine scenes. Visualize yourself as a vulnerable lamb scooped up and carried by the Shepherd of your soul. Visualize Jesus in all His power and radiance, shining forth, seated on the throne at the right hand of God. Visualize yourself sitting at His feet, worshiping Him, and receiving His love, acceptance, light, and favor. Thank Jesus for saving you and preparing a place for you in heaven.

Let us take the time that is needed for God to empower us and help us set our affections on things above. Like difficult trails in the woods, following Jesus may not be easy. But He is worth it.

Colossians 3:1-2 (KJV) - If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.

What spiritual strategies help you set your affections on things above?

P.S. P.S. Are you looking for a fresh way to read the Bible in the new year? Check out my book, The Whole Bible Devotional. Deepen your relationship with Christ through a big-picture view of the Bible and Spirit-filled prayers. God bless you!

Comments

Jessica Brodie From SC At 2/2/2026 12:12:47 PM

Amen to this. We as people tend to get so discouraged when we think about having to overcome the WHOLE BIG THING. But when we focus just on the first step, being obedient in that, it's amazing what can happen!

Reply by: Melissa McLaughlin

You're so right, Jessica! Step by step, the Lord leads us. As we obey and follow Him, He can help us move forward according to His plans. With many blessings along the way!

Michael Clancy From Portland, Or At 2/1/2026 5:51:07 PM

Sister Melissa, God bless you for this. Holy Spirit has been using His Word and people (certainly sermon at church today) to hit me straight in the mind, spirit & soul re: surrender & me/my plans. This devo makes me realize it’s impossible to even consider unless I set my thoughts above. ?????

Reply by: Melissa McLaughlin

Brother Mike, I appreciate your heart for the Lord Jesus. May we keep looking to Him to be empowered to surrender more of ourselves to the Spirit's leading. God bless you!

Yvonne Morgan From Oklahoma At 1/31/2026 10:36:44 AM

What a great message Melissa. Following Christ can include difficulties but the view is worth the challenges. It really describes our journey so well. Thanks

Reply by: Melissa McLaughlin

God bless you, Yvonne! Thank you for your ongoing encouragement as we press on toward Jesus!

Warren McLaughlin From Pennsylvania At 1/27/2026 9:09:42 AM

Lord, I want to seek those things which are above, where Christ sits on the right hand of God. I desire to set my affection on things above, not on things on the earth. Lead me by your Spirit.

Reply by: Melissa McLaughlin

Amen. I am joining you in this heartfelt prayer.

Melissa Henderson From Mount Pleasant SC At 1/27/2026 8:44:08 AM

Amen. One step at a time and remember we are not alone. God is always with us. :-) Have a blessed day! Stay warm.

Reply by: Melissa McLaughlin

Such a comfort to remember we are not alone. God bless you!

Spiritual Life

Join author and teacher, Melissa McLaughlin, and grow in Truthful Grace as we ignite the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit in our hearts, minds, prayers and lives. Grow in Christ, grow in the knowledge of His Word, the Bible, grow the passion in your prayers.

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