*Above Only Devotional* SAT, DEC 22 *Love Not the World* _1 John 2:15-17 (NKJV)_

*Above Only Devotional*

SAT, DEC 22

*Love Not the World*

_1 John 2:15-17 (NKJV)_
_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 lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life

— is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever._

No matter how pleasurable and glamorous the things of the world may appear, they are temporal and will pass away like grass, 1Pet.1:24. They don't last or stay in vogue forever. God doesn't want us to love them or set our hearts on them. Today, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life is causing many people to steal, kill and destroy just to have money, cars, houses, sex, appointments, fame and power. They have been blinded and deceived by the god of this world to see having these things as the ultimate and sole source of joy, peace and comfort. Sadly, they later find out that it is actually the opposite. 1Timothy 6:10 says, the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

1Timothy 6:11 and 12 goes on to say, but thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses. Set your affections on the things above where Christ is seated (Col.3:1-2) because you are also seated with Him and you have the same life that He has. You are different from the people of this world. Focus on and desire the type of things that Christ would desire if He were in your shoes. Let your focus on the glory you will receive when Christ returns motivate you to purify yourself, 1John 3:3. Being carnally minded will only lead you to death and separation from the life and fullness of God, while being spiritually minded will fill you with God's life and peace, Rom.8:6.

PRAYER:
I desire to know You more and do your will, Creator God. Fill me with Your love and help me to focus on Christ and on spiritual things

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR READING PLAN
Eccls. 10-12 Galatians 1