1 John Chapter 2: Verses 15-17 (NIV)
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.
John Chapter 14: verse 27(NIV)
“Peace, I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
In his letter John is reminding his readers here to get their priorities right. He tells them not to strive for the wrong things, possessions, status and short-term sexual pleasure. These things are only temporary and can be lost in the blink of an eye.
It seems then for us that nothing has really changed since John first wrote this letter. If we look at success in the eyes of the today, the pressure to acquire possessions and being seen with the “right” people is still often how it is measured. And we know all of the stress and unhappiness such pressures can bring. We also know the saying that we can’t take these things with us, so why are possessions and status still considered so important by many?
Perhaps John is remembering one of the last things Jesus promised His disciples – peace of heart and mind. Jesus doesn’t promise us the trappings that the world offers, but in following His path, He offers us something far more precious and everlasting. I know which I would prefer and am grateful to have it.
Dear Lord
help me to keep my priorities right, doing Your will and following Jesus’ example. Thank You for the blessing of a nice home and family and friends. Help me not to hold on to them so tightly that I take my eyes away from Your path. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.