1 John 2:15-17

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 of life—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.

The world and the Father are at opposition with one another and are competing for the loyalty of our hearts. Both are very influential and have life-altering impacts.  However, they have exact opposite effects on those they influence.  It is impossible to please both and is equally impossible to escape from either.  We are called to make continuous and conscientious choices between the world and the Father, because we can’t please both.

OUR LOVES REVEAL OUR ALEGIANCES: The commandment to not love the world or the things in the world could not be clearer.  However, understanding a command and obeying it are not the same thing.  We live in this world and there are so many things that are enjoyable in this world.  This world and the systems of this world also have temptations and trials that can cause us to both sin and suffer.  Whether looking at the blessings of this world or the accursed things; this world is not to be the object of our love.  Certainly, John is warning us of the sinful attractions of this world.  We are to love God exclusively and not allow anyone or anything else to take His place in our hearts and lives.

OUR DESIRES REVEAL OUR AFFECTIONS: The most dangerous instrument of temptation in our lives is ourselves.  John warns us about three types of temptations we face in this fallen world.  Our bodies have longings, some of which are essential to survival while others provide us with pleasure.  Food, drink, and sleep are examples of desires we have that are essential to survival.  However, all of them can be abused to the point where they become idols in our lives.  Sex, comfort, and entertainment are desires we feel that are not in and of themselves sinful but can easily become idols.  The second area of temptation is for possessions.  Our eyes are fascinated by beautiful things.  The stimulate us with a desire to have those things.  The third area of temptation is pride.  This is more of a desire to be someone who is respected and admired by others.  God wants the affections of our hearts to be reserved for Him alone.  

OUR ACTIONS REVEAL OUR ASPIRATIONS: This world and all the temptations to sin that are in this world are only temporary.  What God has in store for us in eternity will exceed by far anything this world might have to offer.  We demonstrate whether we are living for the passing pleasures of this world or if we are living for the eternal promises of God by the things that we do.  Obedience to God’s will may require suffering and hardship in this world.  We demonstrate that we love God, by turning from the desires of the world, and walking in obedience to the Lord.  

APPLICATION: Reserve our love for God alone.  Don’t allow pleasures, possessions, or positions to become idols in our lives.  Focus on the eternal benefits of doing God’s will.

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