Big Idea: Your focus determines your future. 1 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. 5 Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. 6 Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. 7 You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. 8 But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. 9 Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices 10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. 11 Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. Colossians 3:1-11 (NIV) NEXT RIGHT STEPS This week, I will: Set my mind on Christ daily Put to death one specific sinful pattern Put on one Christlike habit or attitude TALK IT OVER Big Idea Your focus determines your future Opening Prayer Ask God to renew your mind, reshape your desires, and help you live out your new life in Christ. Icebreaker (5 minutes) What is something that tends to consume your thoughts during the week? How does it affect your mood or actions? Read Colossians 3:1–11 together. Key Truth - What you think about shapes what you desire… and what you desire shapes how you live. Discussion Questions Family / Youth Friendly Questions Why is it hard to change our thinking and habits? 1. Set Your Mind on Things Above (Colossians 3:1–4) What does it mean to “set your mind on things above” in everyday life? What are some common distractions or thoughts that pull our focus away from Christ? What helps you stay focused on God during a busy week? Cross references: Romans 12:2 Philippians 4:8 2. Put to Death What Belongs to Your Old Life (Colossians 3:5–9) Why do you think Paul uses such strong language like “put to death”? What is one area where people often struggle to let go of old habits or patterns? What is one area where you feel God calling you to take action and remove something from your life? Cross references: Romans 8:13 Galatians 5:24 3. Put On the New Self in Christ (Colossians 3:10–11) What does it mean to “put on the new self” practically? What are some qualities or attitudes that reflect the new life in Christ? What is one Christlike trait you want to grow in right now? Cross references: 2 Corinthians 5:17 Ephesians 4:22–24 Personal Reflection Which of these do you most need to act on this week? I need to set my mind on Christ I need to put something to death I need to put on a new Christlike habit. Life Application This week, take one intentional step: Set Your Mind: Start each day with Scripture or truth from God’s Word Put to Death: Remove one habit, influence, or pattern that pulls you away from God Put on the New Self: Practice one Christlike attitude (patience, kindness, humility, etc.)