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In summary: In today’s world, it’s easy for Christian youth to become consumed by school, success, and social expectations. Yet Scripture calls us to set our minds on things above, not on earthly things (Col 3:2). To look up is to lift our gaze from temporary goals to the eternal purpose of God. Here’s how you can refocus your heart and live for what truly lasts.
Look Up: How Christian Youth Can Live for What Truly Lasts
As I woke up and read my devotions, I noticed a verse “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” (Colossians 3:2) This made me think about how many things distract us, such as school, friends, social media, money, and even worries about the future. Sometimes it feels like my head is full of notifications. But why does all this matter? What am I actually setting my hearts and minds on? “Am I thinking about what I want or what God wants?”
What Really Lasts for Christian Youth
The things we have on this earth are temporary: the money, the fame, the wants will all fade away. We may feel happiness for a moment, but it won’t last. Why have temporary treasure here on Earth when we can have eternal treasure up in Heaven? We are to treasure Jesus Christ most of all. If he is our treasure, we should use our money, our time, our talents to fulfil His work here on Earth. “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21)
Here, Jesus doesn’t mean to disregard everything, but he says to prioritise God.
How do we store treasures in Heaven?
- By Serving God and others. We can use our resources and time for the glory of God and His work.
- Secondly, by living a life faithful to Him and seeking Him above all else. We see this in Matthew 6:33, which reads “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
God isn’t saying that he will give you anything you want, but he will provide you with what you need to fulfil His work. Therefore, we mustn’t worry about what tomorrow holds, because we know who holds tomorrow. - Continue to pray and do your daily devotions, as this helps you to gain a deeper and meaningful connection with Him.
- Show love to your enemies and all around you, be generous with your possessions, showing kindness and care to your neighbours.
Eternal Life and Eternal rewards
The ultimate treasure we can gain is eternal life. It is an eternal relationship with God that starts from now and forevermore. Eternal life and eternal rewards are related but different. Eternal Life is a gift from God, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8), and Eternal Rewards are given based on how we serve and our obedience. These rewards reflect our faithfulness and heart towards others.
Think of it this way:
Eternal life is the door, and Jesus opens the door to you (salvation through Jesus).
Once you’re inside, how you live in your relationship with him will determine the richness and beauty that follows. Without Eternal life, nothing else can follow
In short:
Eternal life – For everyone who believes it, receives it.
Eternal reward – Differs based on how we live for Christ. BUT it is still a gift from God, and he gave it to us out of his own goodwill.
What Are the Eternal Rewards for God’s Faithful Youth?
The scriptures talk about 5 different crowns:
- The Crown of Righteousness is given to those who have stayed faithful, loving Him and walking in His righteousness. (2Timothy 4:8)
- The Crown of Life is given to those who have suffered persecution and temptation. It represents eternal joy and victory. (James 1:12)
- The Crown of Glory is for those who serve and guide others, people like mentors, pastors or anyone who leads by example. (1 Peter 5:4)
- The Crown of Rejoicing is the reward for people who help others come to faith. (1 Thessalonians 2:19)
- The Imperishable Crown is given to those who maintain a life with discipline. Staying faithful to God and finishing the race well. It represents their spiritual endurance. (1 Corinthians 9:25)
These crowns are not just honorifics but also reflect responsibility in God’s kingdom.
For example, the Crown of Glory is for those leading others, reflecting a role of leadership.
The Crown of rejoicing is tied to helping others grow in their faith, showing one’s influence in spiritual growth.
These crowns reveal that God’s kingdom is organised and built around trust and faithfulness; it is not about hierarchy and power.
Will You Live the Same? A Call for Christian Youth to Look Up
Earthly riches are temporary; chasing fame and validation is useless. Focus on what God wills and use your resources, time and talent for his work. Through living in faith and obedience, you will gain eternal riches far more worth than anything you could imagine in this world. Seek His kingdom and put your trust in him.
How much are you willing to sacrifice for His glory and Kingdom? When will you, Christian youth look up and set your mind on the heavenly things?
Read more articles and devotions and find more information about our Bible study.
