6 For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
but to be spiritually minded [mind-set or affinity] is life and peace [well-being].
In contrast to the non-Christian who is carnally minded, the mind-set that rests on spirituality leads toward “life and peace.” This is the state of the Christian. Before people become Christians they are dead spiritually, but once they become Christians they come alive to the things of God.
This phrase as well as the previous is a reckoning rather than a consequence. The person with a mind set on the things of God has life and peace. This is a description of the Christian life.
“Minded” shows a ruling determination or attitude. It is a thorough-going orientation to God. If our mind-set is dominated by response to the Spirit, there is both life and peace. Christians are at peace with the idea of not fighting God’s authority in their lives.
‘Life” here may refer to eternal life in resurrection form (Jn 5:24). “Life” refers to eternal life both in time and eternity. “Peace” may be both the present peace of tranquility as a Christian and ultimate peace.
PRINCIPLE:
To mind the things of God is to set our values on what God reveals to us in His Word.
APPLICATION:
Those who live according to the Spirit submit themselves to God. It is not possible to live on both sides of this dynamic at once. That is why it is imperative that we set our values on God and His Word. God places the issue of direction in life before us. We cannot keep the divine direction before us without determination.
Co 3:1-3, If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. 2 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.
There is nothing worse than being at war with your Creator. On the other hand, there is nothing so blessed as to be at peace with Him. Those who do not know Him operate with severe fear and distressing distrust. There is no terror of conscience for those who trust Him.
Is 48:22, “There is no peace,” says the Lord, “for the wicked.”
