1 John 2:16
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.
What are my goals at this time in my life? Are they in line with what I believe would be God’s will? That is really something for me to pray more about. Am I still reaching for something that will bring me pleasure here on earth, or am I looking to God, listening to the Holy Spirit for direction? Sometimes it is easy to get caught up in our reputation, how we look to others, what we are seen to have achieved. I hope that I have left most of that behind.
Holy Lord, help me to aim my ambitions to please you. May I live for you and your creation at all times. Amen
Becky, transforming
Thursday, August 1st, 2024
1 John 2:16
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
John explains that thoughts and desires do the same thing. Since these are temptations, it is possible for a true Christian to stumble and be lead by these thoughts and desires. However if we continue displaying these-worldly actions it is a cause for concern. Loving the world is defined here as physical desires of the flesh and eyes. we receive a strong warning against the many influences of the world which conflicts with all that is holy and true. As Christians, we have been forgiv…
1 John 2:16
One of the lines from The Message version says “Love of the world squeezes out love for the Father. When we get caught up with desires and ambition, they may appear important but they have nothing to do with the Father. When we put aside prayer, church, and study, we distance ourselves from what is most important—God’s love for us and our belief in eternal life.
Prayer: Gracious God, I try very hard to stay in touch with you in many different ways. May I always be able to do that. Amen
1 John 2:16
Lust and pride are constantly before us. The world’s value system urges us to focus on our own desires, to seek more toys and pleasures and flaunt them so that others will see how stylish and sophisticated we are. A deeper and more mature relationship with Jesus guides us to abandon that coarse form of ambition and replace it with a desire to capture the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. This type of ambition not only improves our lives, but the lives of others as well.
Prayer - Spirit of God, govern my thoughts and actions as I navigate a world where lust and pride are so prominent and even celebrated. Keep my ambition focused…