Love God's World

Scripture: 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. 1 John 2:15-16

Observation: "Do not love the world or anything in the world" can be confusing. There are many things in the world that we do love - and are commanded to love - by God's design. This includes other people (specific instruction for spouses and children and orphans and widows) and God's creation (for which we are explicit caretakers). Therefore, verse 16 is critical, as it clarifies what it means for something to be "from the world" ... it is those things we desire. This can range from typical lust, to honor and accomplishment in the eyes of others.

Application: There is an important enlightenment about this definition of something being in/from the world. This phrase does not apply to everything in life - everything that is anywhere in reality. Instead, it is specific to desire.

What would my life look like if I did not wrongly desire anything? I would never look twice at another woman (that's an obvious one); I would not want a new car; I would not seek a promotion at work; I would not wish for pizza for dinner tonight; I wouldn't care about respect from subordinates; I would not be concerned about my next vacation.

And HERE is the key: Imagine what I could replace those things with! I could give more money to causes; I could be healthier; I could talk to people in a way that would open up conversations about Jesus; I could find more time to volunteer; I could serve in an overseas mission; I could better serve my wife and kids.

In other words, not loving the world opens our time, eyes, and heart to loving GOD'S world. It isn't (just) about avoiding sin, it is also about doing his will.

Prayer: Abba, father, thy kingdom come, and thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. This is how I can live that prayer ... by not loving the world, and freeing my body and mind and heart and soul to loving your creation and your created just as you would have us do in heaven. Continue to refine my heart in this way, Lord, for I know that you are at work in me on this - I feel it, and I see progress - and I continue to strive in this. Please keep your spirit strengthening me, Lord. I cannot run this race without your strength. Thank you. Amen.