Jesus’ said that the world only satisfies the lusts of the flesh whereas God satisfies the deepest longings and desires of man. God created us and He knows what makes us truly happy. That is why Jesus admonished us saying, “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 in possessions—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).
The love of the world steals eternal life for it is enmity to God’s principles (James 4:4). Jesus reminds us “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money” (Matthew 6:24). And He invites us to choose His freedom from the slavery of sin (John 8:36).
God wants to spare us the pain that comes from loving the world and its riches “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs” (1 Timothy 6:10). Balaam (2 Peter 2:15) and Judas Iscariot (Matt. 27:3; John 12:4–6) illustrate the enticement of riches and its deadly end. Many are the “sorrows” that are self-induced in our pursuit for material security and lusts of the flesh.
Is it possible for us to overcome the love of the world? The Bible says, YES and this can be done by renewing our minds through God’s Word (Romans 12:2), presenting our bodies as a living sacrifice, and getting transformed by the Holy Spirit. Then, we will be able to discern the right path that we may walk in it by God’s power (Romans 12:1-2). Jesus promised, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10). “Blessed is the people whose God is the LORD” (Psalm 144:15).
In His service,
BibleAsk Team
