It is so easy to be enticed by the things in this world. The temptation to place our happiness and trust in what the world offers is very strong and appealing. The desire for more money, a bigger house, a nicer car, a more successful job/career are great attractions for us to fight off as people of God. Even though we may know these are all fleeting things, it is our sinful human nature and the pull of the passions of this world which drive us to seek the things of this life and flesh.
The Lord God Almighty, through the writings of the Apostle John in 1 John 2:15-17, give us some sound advice on what we should be striving for: Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in them. For all that is in the world, the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions, are not from the Father but are from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
What the Lord is speaking through the words of John are this: Do not cling to this world and its desires; it will soon be over. Cling to Christ and live forever! Our sinful flesh, the devil, and the world will continue to try and tempt us and draw us into seeking the wrong things. They will do it by using the glitz and glitter of this earthly life along with the taste of wealth, power, popularity, and personal pleasures. But we must remember that all these so called satisfiers will never provide you or I with forgiveness, peace, or real contentment. Only Christ alone can provide or offer forgiveness of sins, peace, and true fulfillment. Fleeting happiness is what the world offers. Deep and lasting joy is what the Lord offers. It really should not be a tough choice dear friends in Christ considering what we have to gain in the end! Pastor McCarty
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