“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 2.15-17
There is a difference between loving the world and being thankful for what God has given us in it. I love my life, my wife and kids, my family, and I am thankful for what I have. But I don’t love what I have. We see a great contrast in the Bible: if you love the world, you cannot love God. However, we can love God and give thanks for what He has given us in this world.
It’s not just material things for which we are thankful; it is also positions and opportunities. We can reject the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—as John suggests—and live in fellowship with God. If we put things in the right perspective, we can live in this world and do the will of God. The result of this living is eternal life.
It’s another day in Bulgaria. Today, we will be near the border of Romania. I’ve never been to Eastern Europe, and I find it fascinating. It reminds me just how big the world is and the vastness of God’s creation. This is a beautiful country, and it would be easy to love the world and get attached to what we can have because this is all we know. But just as Jesus said that His kingdom is not of this world, it’s the same for us. We live in this world, but our true home is heaven. Even as I say that, this world and what happens here matter. People coming to know Jesus and putting faith in Him is one hundred percent necessary for receiving the life to come.
As I walk through this day, I focus my love on the Lord, not on this world. Yet, I see value in His creation, His people, and His church. Nothing matters as much as His Body bringing Him glory and people finding faith in Jesus. I am happy to be part of the Global Methodist Church, which is steadfast in making disciples. Jesus is our Lord, our hope, and our King. We love Him and can’t wait until the day we get to walk with Him face to face.
“O Lord God, this is a beautiful morning in Bulgaria. My mind is a little scattered, however. I am thankful for this time here and for the continued journey You have given us to walk with You. I love You, Lord, for saving me and for allowing me to walk in grace with You. Come now, Holy Spirit, fill me with Your power and love. I give thanks for this world, but You are the one I love and worship. For You are good, and Your love endures forever.” Amen