The Freedom Found in Looking Up: Setting Our Hearts on the Age to Come

Sometimes, when we’re deep in the work—whether we’re preparing for a mission, studying scriptures in a Book Club, or just having a quiet moment of reflection—the weight of *this* life can feel heavy. We get so caught up in the immediate needs, the daily grind, the things that are right under our noses, that it’s easy to forget the magnificent vista waiting for us.

It’s easy to get distracted by the temporary. We can become so addicted to the comforts, the accolades, or even the immediate struggles of the day that our minds wander far from the glorious destination awaiting us. But friends, the gospel message isn't just about *getting* to the destination; it’s about *how* the anticipation of that destination changes everything right now.

I was recently pondering this after hearing John Piper speak on this very topic. He reminded us that setting our minds on things above isn't a spiritual luxury; it’s the very source of our earthly power. He challenged us to consider the lie that says, "If you think too much about heaven, you won't be good at anything here."

The Lie and the Truth

Friends, that is a lie. A colossal, worldly lie. The truth is the exact opposite: It is the people who know their destiny is rock solid, whose hope is sure, who are free because they know what awaits them, that they become the most capable, the most generous, and the most risk-taking servants of the Lord.

Think about it. If you are completely secure in your eternal future, what are you afraid of losing today? You aren't afraid of a little sacrifice, a little discomfort, or a little risk taken for someone else’s salvation. That security—that parachute of hope—frees you to love radically.

The Power of Hope

This principle is so vital for us as disciples, whether we are in the MTC, serving in the field, or right here in our homes. Our hope isn't just a nice feeling; it's the fuel for our discipleship. It’s what allows us to be the best Internet missionaries we can be.

When we understand that our life is hid with Christ in God, we are empowered to live a lifestyle that draws questions from others. People will look at our actions—our willingness to serve, our patience during a difficult missionary discussion, our joy while studying scripture in a Bible Study Group—and they will ask, "What hope is behind that?"

And our answer, rooted in the Spirit, must be clear: "It is the hope of glory. That is my hope."

This isn't just for those of us who are currently in the field. This is for every member who wants to be a disciple anywhere, all the time. We must constantly practice setting our minds on the eternal, allowing that perspective to refine our daily choices.

A Bite-Sized Skill: The Eternal Filter

For our mission preparation this week, I want to challenge us to practice the "Eternal Filter." When you are faced with a decision—a commitment, a purchase, a time allocation—pause and ask yourself: "Does this decision align with a life focused on the Age to Come? Does this action build my capacity to serve others in the kingdom?" If the answer feels weak, gently redirect your focus back to the covenants we have made.

If you’ve been feeling the pull to focus on the temporary, I highly recommend diving back into the teachings of the Iron Rod authors. Specifically, if you haven't read the material related to this, check out some of the foundational concepts in LivingBook.

If you want to discuss this further with friends, remember that the Book Club setting in HolyPlaces is a wonderful place to process these deeper teachings together. Let’s keep building each other up in the Spirit!