”15 Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. 16 For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. 17 The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.
1 John 2:15-17New International Version (NIV)
1 John 2:15-17 Devotional (Daily Bible Verses)
Do not love the world or anything in the world!
1 John 2:15-17 delivers a clear and powerful message: “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.”
This passage challenges us to examine our affections and priorities, urges us to choose the Father’s love over the fleeting allure of the world, and reminds us of the eternal nature of obedience. So, let’s dive deeper into this crucial instruction and explore its practical implications.
Do not love the world or anything in the world!
John’s command is not a call to isolate ourselves from creation or to despise people. Rather, it’s a warning against allowing worldly values and desires to dominate our hearts. The “world” here refers to the system of values and desires that oppose God’s will.
If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them
This is a sobering statement. It reveals that our affections are not neutral; they reflect our allegiance. When we prioritize worldly things, our love for the Father diminishes.
For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world
Apostle John, therefore, identified three (3) primary manifestations of worldly allure:
- The lust of the flesh: This refers to the pursuit of physical gratification and sensual pleasures that disregard God’s boundaries.
- The lust of the eyes: This encompasses the insatiable desire for material possessions, status, and the constant craving for more.
- The pride of life: This involves arrogance, self-exaltation, and the pursuit of worldly recognition.
By the way, these desires are not inherently sinful, but when they become our driving force, they lead us away from God. They originate from the world’s system, not from the Father’s heart.
The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever
Finally, verse 17 adds an eternal perspective. It reminds us that the things we chase in this world are temporary. True and lasting fulfillment is found in doing God’s will, which leads to eternal life. This stark contrast between the fleeting world and eternal life adds urgency to John’s warning.
Reflection
- Where do your affections lie? Are you more drawn to the things of the world or the things of God?
- Which of the three (3) manifestations of worldly allure—lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, or pride of life—do you struggle with most?
- Do you truly believe that the things of this world are temporary? How does this belief affect your daily choices?
- How can you cultivate a deeper love for the Father that surpasses your desire for worldly things, and how can you align your life with His eternal will?
- What practical steps can you take to resist the world’s influence and align your heart with God’s will?
Prayer/Blessing
Heavenly Father, I confess that I am often tempted by the allure of the world. Forgive me for the times I have allowed worldly desires to distract me from Your love and Your eternal plan.
Help me to cultivate a heart that is fully devoted to You. Grant me the strength to resist the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. Remind me of the temporary nature of this world and help me to set my heart on eternal things.
Fill me with Your love, that I may find my satisfaction in You alone, and help me to do Your will. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Call to Action
Today, make a conscious effort to prioritize your love for the Father over the allure of the world and to align your life with His eternal will.
- Identify specific areas where you are tempted by worldly desires.
- Spend time in prayer, asking God to purify your heart and align your desires with His.
- Read scripture passages that speak of God’s love, the dangers of worldliness, and the promise of eternal life.
- Practice gratitude, focusing on the eternal blessings God has given you.
- Find a way to serve others, as a way to take the focus off yourself and to do God’s will.
- Find an accountability partner to help you fight temptation.
Choose the Father’s love and eternal life. Resist the world’s embrace.
Daily Bible Reading
Psalms 120-131 (see How to Read the Bible in One Year or How to Read the Bible (for Beginners))
Cliff Lukaye
Cliff Lukaye is a believer, husband, father, pastor, DIYer, and writer living in Nairobi, Kenya. He is inspired by the beauty of God’s Word and the transformative power of faith and seeks to share reflections and insights that encourage others to experience a deeper relationship with God.
Additionally, he believes that every moment is an opportunity to praise God and live a life of worship. You can connect with him on his YouTube channel, [Pastor Cliff Lukaye], FaceBook page, [Pastor Cliff Lukaye], Instagram account, [Cliff Lukaye], and X handle, [CliffLukaye].
