Is there anything I can live without? What is it that calls into question where my allegiance is? What is it that has captured my heart? The answer to that last question determines who controls my thoughts, words, and behaviors. Bottom line: I am either worshiping and serving the creation or the Creator.

This is a somewhat tough one for me. I want to believe that my sights are set right but at the same time, I must be honest and admit my heart is often divided. It is exactly what Tripp says: “My heart is living under the rule of ‘things that are above’ or ‘things that are on the earth.'”

I’m like every other human being on the planet. I have the “above” and the “earth” struggle. I truly want to be focused on the “above,” the things which go along with “Set your mind on things above.” But I’m honest enough to admit that the latter part of the verse: “Not on things that are on the earth” is more applicable. (Verse is Colossians 3:2)

Tripp says this ongoing battle is proof positive “I need grace-grace that can free me from bondage to things that will never give em what God alone can: life.”

“Father, I fight this constant battle between the ‘above’ and the ‘earth.’ However, it is in this battle I recognize my need for ongoing grace. Not a one-time shot. Help me to align myself with you and find myself in a constant awareness of my need for grace.”