The Father's Menu
Apostle Dr. Richard Udoh
Thursday, December 12, 2024
LOVE NOT THE WORLD
“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.”
1 John 2:15-17
Main Text: MAIN TEXT: 2 Timothy 2:22
The spirit of the world operates within three destructive categories: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. These represent the desires and pursuits of those who prioritize worldly pleasures over godly principles. People under the influence of this spirit chase after material possessions—luxurious cars, grand houses, fleeting relationships, and indulgent lifestyles—without considering the eternal consequences.
The Bible reminds us that such pursuits are fleeting and often abominable in the eyes of God. Luke 16:15 says, “For that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.” This stark warning reveals the misplaced value the world places on materialism and self-gratification, often at the expense of righteousness and the things that truly matter to God.
God has called His children to a higher standard. In Matthew 6:33, we are instructed, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” True prosperity—spiritual and material—originates from aligning our lives with God’s will, not from chasing after fleeting worldly gains.
Unlike the spirit of the world, God has given us His Spirit. 2 Timothy 1:7 declares, “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” With this Spirit, we are empowered to live lives that reflect God’s glory and purpose. The Holy Spirit enables us to reject the enticements of the world and to walk in the newness of life, pursuing the things that matter to God.
As believers, we must remain vigilant, ensuring our focus is on eternal values rather than temporary worldly pleasures. Let us consciously walk in the Spirit, prioritizing God’s kingdom and living as examples of His transformative power in a world consumed by fleeting desires. When we seek God wholeheartedly, He adds every other need to our lives in His perfect timing.
Confession
I declare, my heart is set on God and His Kingdom. I do not love the world or the things of the world; my affection is for the Lord and His purpose. I am devoted to fulfilling His divine mandate upon the earth, walking in obedience, and advancing His Kingdom daily. I am blessed and highly favored as I live for His glory. Amen!
Further Reading
Luke 16:15 “And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
Read through the bible in 1 year: Amos 7:1-9:15 Revelation 3:7-22 Psalm 131:1-3 Proverbs 29:23
Read through the bible in 2 years: Isa 18-20 & Pr 9.1-18
