“The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.” I Jn 2:17 (NIV) Worldliness is always a temptation and it comes in many forms, but we can take comfort in the knowledge that the world is passing away, along with all its ungodly desires. In general, worldliness is whatever harms anything good. Another way of saying this is that anytime we make something in the world a higher priority than what God desires, then we are being worldly. If we embrace something worldly, then we are embracing vapor, because the the world is passing away.
It certainly takes inspired willpower to resist the temptation to join with others in their worldliness. We are especially tempted to avoid the pain of being devalued by others. But the promise of God is that the world is passing away, so we can resist it, knowing that it will be gone with the wind. Instead, we focus on doing God’s good will because this leads to eternal happiness. Moreover, as others see that our hearts are set on something better, God will use our witness to draw others to Jesus and his love.
Do you live with the knowledge that the world is passing away? Does this encourage you? Does this strengthen you to resist temptation?
New Podcast! If you want more help for overcoming challenges and finding the peace, joy and fulfillment that comes with abiding in Christ, then please subscribe to our podcast Christ Formation (click link for more info and links to podcast apps.)
