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Eyes on Eternity:

Discipleship in a Worldly Age

Tuesday, June 25, 2024

In our journey of discipleship, the apostle ​John provides us with clear guidance on ​how to navigate the tension between our ​faith and the world around us. He urges us ​not to love the world or the things it ​offers, because these things do not ​originate from God. Instead, he ​encourages us to prioritize God's will in ​our lives, as it leads to eternal ​significance.

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves ​the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the ​world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and ​pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world. And the ​world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the ​will of God abides forever. _1 John 2:15-17 ESV

John identifies three categories of worldly allurements: "the desires of the flesh," "the ​desires of the eyes," and "the pride of life." These encompass a wide range of temptations ​and distractions that draw our focus away from God. The desires of the flesh include ​physical pleasures and cravings that can consume our thoughts and actions. The desires of ​the eyes refer to material possessions and the allure of wealth and status that promise ​fulfillment but often leave us empty. The pride of life encompasses the pursuit of ​recognition, power, and self-glory, which can lead to arrogance and self-centeredness.

In our daily lives, we encounter these temptations constantly. Whether it's the lure of ​indulging in pleasures that compromise our values, the craving for possessions beyond our ​needs, or the quest for success that elevates our ego, the world presents us with choices ​that challenge our commitment to God.

In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the ​unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the ​glory of Christ, who is the image of God. _2 Corinthians 4:4 ESV

Furthermore, Paul in 2 Corinthians 4:4 speaks of the god of this world who blinds ​unbelievers to the light of the gospel. This reinforces John's message, highlighting the ​spiritual battle at play. The world, influenced by the enemy, seeks to distract and deceive, ​offering false promises that lead away from God's truth and eternal life.

As disciples of Christ, we are called to live differently. We are called to discern what aligns ​with God's will and what doesn't. This requires intentional reflection and prayer, seeking ​God's wisdom and strength to resist worldly temptations. It means making choices that ​prioritize eternal values over temporary gratifications.

John reminds us that the world and its desires are fleeting—they will pass away. In contrast, ​those who do the will of God abide forever. This assurance encourages us to invest our ​lives in pursuits that have lasting significance, rooted in our relationship with God and our ​obedience to His Word.

Today, let's examine our hearts and minds. Are we prioritizing God's will above all else? Are ​we actively resisting the allure of worldly desires that lead us away from Him? Let's pray for ​the wisdom and strength to choose wisely, knowing that in doing so, we are aligning ​ourselves with God's eternal purposes and promises.

May our lives reflect a deep love for God and a steadfast commitment to His will, ​demonstrating to the world around us the transformative power of a life surrendered to ​Christ.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word that guides and instructs us in the ways ​of righteousness. Help us, Lord, to discern and resist the temptations of the world that seek ​to draw us away from You. Grant us wisdom to prioritize Your will in all areas of our lives, ​knowing that Your plans are good and everlasting. Strengthen us by Your Spirit to live as ​faithful disciples, shining Your light in a world that desperately needs Your truth. In Jesus' ​name, amen.