Fruitful Living

25 ways to set your mind on things above (Part 1)

INTRODUCTION

The apostle Paul told us to set our minds on“things above,” that is, heavenly things, not on things on the earth,” that is, earthly things – Colossians 3:2. We need to be intentional about the information we feed our minds with and what we process with our minds.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus – Philippians 4:6

SETTING OUR MIND ON THINGS ABOVE.

ADOPT A HEAVENLY MINDSET

In Romans 12:2, we find another excellent piece of advice from the apostle Paul. He wrote that we should be “transformed by the renewing of our minds” Romans 12:2. How do we do that? The same Bible verse tells us not to be “conformed to this world” – Romans 12:2. We should not allow our minds to be shaped by the present world but by God’s Word. Our mindset needs to be changed. We need to let go of values and habits that don’t agree with God’s will and adopt a new mindset built upon the truth from Scripture.

FOCUS YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE RIGHT THINGS

Paul’s exhortation in Philippians 4:8 teaches us to be very selective with what should occupy our thoughts. This Bible verse tells us to think about things that are: True, Honest, Just, Pure, Lovely, Admirable, Virtuous, worthy of praise and if something doesn’t fit any of these categories, we should not allow it into our thought life.

ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR DEPENDENCY UPON GOD

If we want to produce real change in our minds and hearts, we need God’s help. He is the One that can help us desire and pursue change Philippians 2:13. No matter how hard we try on our own, we won’t be able to overcome our sinful human nature without God working in us through His Holy Spirit Galatians 5:16-17.

LET THE HOLY SPIRIT BE YOUR HELPER

The Holy Spirit dwells in every child of God John 14:17. He will help us keep our minds on heavenly things in many ways, such as:

Teaching us and reminding us of the words of Christ Jesus John 14:26.
Leading us Romans 8:14.
Assuring us that we are children of God (Romans 8:16).
Interceding for us Romans 8:26.
Guiding us into all truth John 16:13.
Empowering us Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 12:11.

And much more! Ask the Holy Spirit to be your helper, to help you discern and seek the important things John 14:16.

RESIST THE DEVIL

This is what the apostle James has told us to do. By resisting the devil, he will flee from us James 4:7. To resist means to oppose, to withstand against him. We resist the devil as Jesus did: through prayer, fasting, and God’s Word Luke 4:1-13.

We need to be aware of the enemy’s strategies so we don’t fall into his traps 2 Corinthians 2:11; 1 Peter 5:8. Since this battle occurs mostly in our minds, we need to resist the devil so that we can focus our minds on the things of God.

PUT ON THE FULL ARMOUR OF GOD

This is a known illustration Paul used to advise us in our fight against the evil one and its army Ephesians 6:10-17. The components of the armour of God are:

Belt of truth: to fight the devil’s lies.
Breastplate of righteousness: Jesus’ righteousness (not ours!) protects our hearts from the devil’s attacks.
Shoes of the gospel of peace: to stand firm and advance into the enemy’s territory to proclaim the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Shield of faith: to extinguish the attacks by the enemy.
Helmet of salvation: to protect our minds.
Sword of the Spirit: this is the Word of God, which is our weapon of defence and attack Matthew 4:3-11.

Keep in mind that prayer is a key element in the battle Ephesians 6:18

GUARD YOUR HEART

What does that expression from Proverbs 4:23 mean? In biblical terms, the “heart” is the centre of the will, thoughts, feelings, and desires. Nowadays, we say those things are in our minds. So, that expression means that we need to protect our minds from worldly things. Exposing ourselves to ungodly things that ignite our temptations can cause us to sin Matthew 26:41; James 1:14-16; 1 John 2:15-17.

LET GO OF YOUR OLD SELF

In Ephesians 4:20-23, Paul tells us to put off our old self (our sinful nature) and put on our new self (the new creation Paul talks about in 2 Corinthians 5:17. This illustration reminds us of a person changing clothes. Paul urges us to let go of our fallen nature, with its evil desires and worldly lusts, and embrace our new holy nature. It all begins in our minds by letting go of worldly thoughts and actions that lead us to sin and pursuing holiness 1 Peter 1:14-16.

LEARN TO DISCERN WHAT IS TEMPORARY FROM WHAT IS ETERNAL

Everything in this world is temporary; it all belongs to a creation that will be renewed in the end Revelation 21:1. We need to keep that in mind and understand that what really matters are the eternal things 2 Corinthians 4:18. We should set our minds and energy into making an eternal impact with our lives, not living for the things of the world. Our lives must be dedicated to God and the things that please Him.

SEE THE WORLD FROM GOD’S PERSPECTIVE

Doing this helps us deconstruct the lies the world has taught us our entire lives. Let us start by observing how Jesus and the apostles lived. Let’s start by reading the New Testament and pay attention to these questions:

What occupied their time?
What were their priorities?
What mattered to them?
How did they relate to the things of this world?

For example, in the episode of Jesus’ temptation, we see the Lord refusing things of this earth, like food, riches, fame and power, in order to obey God’s Word Luke 4:1-13. The Kingdom of God was His priority over whatever the devil could offer Him from the things of earth. His was a heavenly perspective.

LET LOVE BE YOUR MOTIVATION

Paul begins the well-known chapter about love in 1 Corinthians chapter 13 by saying that everything we say, do, and give must be out of love; otherwise, it all comes down to nothing 1 Corinthians 13:1-3. God’s love must dwell in us, through the Holy Spirit, so our love for Him and others will be the driving force for what we think and do 1 Corinthians 16:14.

ACKNOWLEDGE THE PRESENCE OF GOD IN YOUR LIFE

You cannot do it alone. But the good news is that God is with you Isaiah 41:10. This assurance helps us focus on what matters, on the things of heaven. We don’t depend upon our own strength; we depend upon God! So, when you feel weak, when your mind slips into negative thoughts, remember that God is there with you, even if it doesn’t seem so.

SEEK GOD’S WISDOM

We need God’s wisdom to help us focus our minds and hearts on the things of the Kingdom of God. Here are some suggestions to help you seek wisdom from God:

Be humble and acknowledge you need it Proverbs 3:7, 18:15.
Know that all wisdom comes from God Proverbs 2:6.
Study the Bible. Start by meditating on Jesus’ life in the New Testament and the book of Proverbs in the Old Testament.
Pray and ask God to give you wisdom James 1:5.
Welcome advice from more experienced followers of Jesus and learn from those who belong to the body of Christ Proverbs 19:20; Colossians 3:16.

To be continued!

Stay Blessed!

For further inquiries please contact us on Tel Nos. 0243588467 or 0268130615

Email: saltnlightministries@gmail.com

Website: saltandlightministriesgh.org

By Dr Joyce Aryee, the author

Fruitful Living

Institution of Marriage in Islam (Pt.3)

Regarding sexual intimacy, it is also prohibited for a wife to demand money or gifts before allowing her husband to engage in sexual relations. Islam views this as a form of exploitation and sin. A marital relationship must be based on mutual love, respect, and affection rather than material gain.

Prohibition of sexual intercourse during menstruation

Islam has clear guidelines regarding sexual relations during certain times, particularly when a woman is menstruating. The Qur’an prohibits sexual intercourse during menstruation, stating:

“And they ask you about menstruation. Say: ‘It is harm, so keep away from women during menstruation. And do not approach them until they are pure. And when they have purified themselves, then come to them from where Allah has ordained for you. Indeed, Allah loves those who are constantly repentant and loves those who purify themselves’” (Qur’an 2:222).

This verse emphasises the importance of refraining from sexual activity during menstruation due to physical and spiritual reasons. However, all other forms of affection and companionship are allowed, and husbands should continue to care for their wives during this time with love and respect.

Islamic law encourages cleanliness and personal hygiene, especially in matters related to physical intimacy. After the menstruation period ends, it is recommended that the wife perform ghusl (ritual purification) before resuming sexual relations with her husband.

Rights of Children on Parents

Islam emphasises the rights of children on their parents, as marriage is the foundation of family life. Parents are obligated to provide their children with proper care, education, and moral guidance. The Qur’an states: “O you who have believed, protect yourselves and your families from a Fire whose fuel is people and stones…” (Qur’an 66:6).

This highlights the parents’ responsibility to raise their children with a strong sense of morality and faith. Children have the right to a good name, religious upbringing, and education, and they must be treated with fairness and love.

In Ghana’s law, there is Children’s Right Act, Act 560 (1989) which states among other things,

• Section 4, Right to Name, Nationality and secure a Birth Certificate for the child

• Section 6(3) (a&b), protection from neglect, provide good guidance, care etc

• Section 8(1&2), Right to education and wellbeing (medical care, diet, clothing, shelter).

How Do Married Couples Resolve Their Differences in Islam?

Islam provides clear guidelines for resolving marital conflicts in a just and compassionate manner.

The Qur’an instructs that in the event of marital discord, both parties should seek reconciliation:

“If you fear dissension between the two, send an arbitrator from his people and an arbitrator from her people. If they both desire reconciliation, Allah will cause it between them” (Qur’an 4:35).

The goal is always to preserve the marriage and restore harmony. If reconciliation is not possible, Islam permits divorce as a last resort, but it is considered the most disliked permissible act in the eyes of Allah (SWT).

Rewards of Marriage in Islam

Marriage in Islam is not only a social institution but also an act of worship that brings great rewards. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “When a man marries, he has fulfilled half of his religion, so let him fear Allah regarding the remaining half” (Bayhaqi, Shu’ab al-Iman).

Married couples are rewarded for fulfilling their marital responsibilities, showing kindness to each other, and raising righteous children who contribute positively to society.

Scholarly Thoughts About Marriage in Islam

Islamic scholars, such as Imam Al-Ghazali, have discussed marriage as a means of controlling desires and fulfilling one’s spiritual obligations. Modern scholars like Sheikh Yusuf Qaradawi also stress the importance of mutual respect and understanding in marriage, ensuring that both partners can grow spiritually and emotionally within the marriage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, marriage in Islam is a divinely ordained relationship based on mutual love, respect, and responsibility. By following the guidance of the Qur’an and Sunnah, and observing the legal frameworks in place, such as Ghana’s Mohammedan Ordinance, we can establish strong and harmonious marriages that contribute to the moral and spiritual development of society. May Allah (SWT) guide us to fulfill our marital responsibilities with sincerity and love.

The Writer is Kpone Katamanso Municipal Chief Imam, Democracy and Governance Law Student, UCC, Member of Ghana National Association of Certified Counsellors Certified by Ghana Psychology Council

References:

1.Qur’an, Surah Ar-Rum (30:21)

2.Qur’an, Surah An-Nisa (4:34, 4:4, 4:19, 4:35)

3.Qur’an, Surah Al-Baqarah (2:187, 2:221, 2:222, 2:223)

4.Qur’an, Surah At-Tahrim (66:6)

5.Ibn Majah, Hadith 1845, 1905

6.Tirmidhi, Hadith 1162, 1084

7.Bukhari, Hadith 5090

8.Children’s Right Act, Act 560 (1989)

9.Bayhaqi, Shu’ab al-Iman

10.Al-Ghazali, Ihya Ulum al-Din

11.Qaradawi, The Lawful and Prohibited in Islam

Fruitful Living

Adansi North DCE marks birthday on Farmers’ Day

• Mr Kusi (middle) on the dancing floor with some assembly members

It was a momentous day for the Adansi North District Chief Executive, Eric Kwaku Kusi, last Friday November 8, as the 40th National Farmers Day district level celebration held here at Adansi Adokwai coincidentally fell on his birthday.

On a low-key, Mr Kusi momentarily took to the floor, to exhibit his dancing skills responding to cheers of “Happy Birthday to you” from the audience, to which he also responded with a gesture of thanks and praises to God, as he stepped out to address the gathering.

He was joined on the dancing floor by the assembly members singing praises to God for the life of their indefatigable DCE.

In his address, Mr Kusi commended farmers in the Adansi North and the country as a whole “who tirelessly cultivate the land to feed all of us in our communities.”

He said the government realising the important role agriculture played in the economy and the challenges facing farmers due to the effects of climate change was rolling out initiatives and policies to support climate-resilient agriculture, including agriculture insurance programme for farmers.

In all 16 farmers were awarded various prizes for their contribution to food sufficiency in the country.

Francis Appiah, 41, who hails from Adokwai was adjudged the District Best Farmer for 2024, and took home a tricycle and other assorted items. The first runner-up prize went to Sakyi Kwabena also from Adokwai and the second runner-up went to Kwame Gyamera from Dompoase.

From Alhaji Salifu Abdul-Rahaman, Adansi Adokwai