Signs of The Times

For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.

I John 2:16

I John 2:15-17- The world draws the heart from God; and the more the love of the world prevails, the more the love of God decays. The things of the world are classed according to the three ruling inclinations of depraved nature. 1. The lust of the flesh, of the body: wrong desires of the heart, the appetite of indulging all things that excite and inflame sensual pleasures. 2. The lust of the eyes: the eyes are delighted with riches and rich possessions; this is the lust of covetousness. 3. The pride of life: a vain man craves the grandeur and pomp of a vain-glorious life; this includes thirst after honor and applause. The things of the world quickly fade and die away; desire itself will ere long fail and cease, but holy affection is not like the lust that passes away.

The love of God shall never fail. Many vain efforts have been made to evade the force of this passage by limitations, distinctions, or exceptions. Many have tried to show how far we may be carnally-minded and love the world; but the plain meaning of these verses cannot easily be mistaken. Unless this victory over the world is begun in the heart, a man has no root in himself, but will fall away, or at most remain an unfruitful professor. Yet these vanities are so alluring to the corruption in our hearts, that without constant watching and prayer, we cannot escape the world, or obtain victory over the god and prince of it. Bible Hub

As believers in Chris the soft tap is a subtle invitation from God to choose His path over the familiar and comfortable ways of the world. It’s easy to become entangled in the routines of life, but this gentle nudge urges us to pause and realign with God’s purpose. This is like when you sense a need to shift gears in your business and life. God is saying, “I’m ready when you are.” James 4:8 instructs us to draw near to God, cleansing our hands and purifying our hearts, eliminating double mindedness.

Today’s question for you: will you choose God and His will or the fleeting satisfactions of the world? Let this question simmer for a moment. Will you choose to surrender, trust, and obey God or continue to have desires that do not draw you close to your creator? Take time today to reflect on areas where a shift may be needed. Draw near to God through prayer, seeking His guidance to cleanse your heart and align your choices with His will.

All the things the world can offer to you—the allure of pleasure, the passion to have things, and the pompous sense of superiority—do not come from the Father. These are the rotten fruits of this world. 

I jOHN 2:16vOICE

Reflections: Reflect on a specific area in your life or business where conformity to worldly standards (materialism, comparison or validation, success by any means, etc.) has subtly crept in. Take a purposeful step to realign this aspect with the timeless principles outlined in God’s Word. Through intentional choices, let your actions be a testament to your commitment to God’s unwavering guidance and principles.

Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, I acknowledge the soft taps guiding me to choose Your will over worldly pursuits. Today, I draw near to You, cleansing my heart and purifying my intentions. Today, I intentionally draw close to You, seeking purification for my heart and clarity in my intentions. Grant me the strength to consistently choose You over the temporary satisfactions of the world. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

.

Leave a comment