Matthew 5:12 “And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.”
When the Bible speaks of the world in the context of oppostition to you, it is not referring to God’s creation but to the world system that is opposed to the things of God. Jesus said that His kingdom is not of this world. Satan’s temporary kingdom is of this world. Ephesians 2:2 states, “Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air.”
Upon identifying our enemy, we must understand that this world attacks the Christian by enticing them away from the Lord. According to I John 2:16, there are three ways the world will attempt to entice you.
The lust of the flesh. This is the strong desire to do. If what we are doing does not glorify God then it is fulfilling the lust of the flesh. The world is constantly seeking to add things to our “to do list” that are not on God’s “to do list.” If I am doing good things for my neighbor at the expense of my responsibilities to my own family then I am giving in to the lust of the flesh. Be content to do God’s will.
The lust of the eyes. This is the desire to have. The world around us is showering us with advertisements for things that we supposedly have to have! Be content with what you have.
The pride of life. This is the desire to be. Being rich or famous or fashionable or physically strong does not begin to compare to knowing that you are being used of God! Be content with being a servant of the Lord. Do the will of God and claim His victory over the world!
Pastor Dale Schwarz
Harbour Light Baptist Church | West Haven, Connecticut
