In our journey of faith, we are constantly faced with choices that can either draw us closer to God or lead us away from Him. The apostle John, in his first letter, reminds us of the importance of choosing God over the world. In 1st John 2:15-17, he highlights three specific areas where we often find ourselves tempted: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life.
1 John 2:15-17 – “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.”
The “lust of the flesh” refers to our desires for physical pleasure and satisfaction that can easily lead us astray. It encompasses anything that appeals to our sinful nature, such as indulging in unhealthy habits, seeking instant gratification, or pursuing selfish desires without considering the consequences. When we prioritize these worldly cravings, we distance ourselves from the love of the Father.
Similarly, the “lust of the eyes” speaks to our longing for material possessions, wealth, and worldly success. Our society bombards us with messages that equate happiness with accumulation and consumption. However, John reminds us that these desires are fleeting and ultimately unfulfilling. True contentment and eternal satisfaction can only be found in our relationship with God.
Lastly, John warns against the “pride of life,” which encompasses the pursuit of personal status, recognition, and power. It is the tendency to exalt ourselves above others and place our own will and desires above God’s. This prideful attitude can lead us down a path of self-centeredness and arrogance, hindering our ability to fully surrender to God’s plan for our lives.
As believers, we are called to be set apart from the world and to live in accordance with God’s will. We should not conform to the patterns and values of this world but rather seek to align ourselves with the teachings of Jesus Christ. By choosing God over the world, we can experience the abundant life that He promises us.
Let us remember that the world and its desires are temporary, passing away like the fading flowers. But whoever does the will of God lives forever. Our Heavenly Father’s love is eternal, unwavering, and surpasses any pleasure, possession, or power this world can offer. When we fix our eyes on Him, we find true joy, purpose, and fulfillment.
So today, let us take a moment to reflect on our own lives and identify areas where we may have been drawn towards the world rather than towards God. Let us ask for His forgiveness and seek His guidance to help us make choices that honor Him. May we be empowered by the Holy Spirit to resist worldly temptations and choose the path that leads us closer to our loving Creator.
Remember, you are never alone in your journey of faith. Lean on God’s wisdom and seek guidance from fellow believers as you navigate the choices before you. May your heart be filled with God’s love and your steps be guided by His truth. God bless you abundantly!
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your Word that guides and instructs us. Help us, dear Lord, to discern the ways of the world and to choose You above all else. Forgive us for the times we have allowed worldly desires to take precedence over our love for You. Fill our hearts with a deep longing for You and grant us the strength to walk in obedience to Your will. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Have you ever eacknowledged Jesus as you Lord and Savior?
If you do not know Him personally. I encourage you not to pass up the precious gift of His love and eternal life. We truly are living in the end days, a d the only road to Heavwn is through Jesus Christ. Jesus died on the cross for you and me. Jesus loves us and wants to help us through the storms. If you have not asked Jesus to be your Lord and Savior please click here 4 Simple Steps to Jesus
If you would like to request a prayer Click Here
Rob Lavallee
Scriptural Seeds Ministries
http://www.scripturalseeds.org
Scriptural Seeds Ministries 