Eyes on the Word

1 John 2:15-17 Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For everything in the world – the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does – comes not from the Father but from the world. 17 The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.
 
HOW do we understand the word “world”? “World” in view of God’s remarkable creation is a wondrous reality. Nature and all elements grandly display God’s gory and creative genius. This world is our Father’s world, which God deemed “good” at creation (Genesis 1).
    But in this passage and in many other references, John and other inspired Bible authors, use “world” to define sin’s corruption on God’s perfection. The world oppose God’s Word.
    There is a small difference in the spelling of “world” and “word”, isn’t there? One letter in the alphabet defines opposite life views. Do you focus on the world? Or do you keep your eyes in the Word? Are you seeking the temporary, putting your worth in the world? Or do you value seeking and doing God’s will? John pointedly tells you there is no mingling the two views.
    The differences need no elaboration. A world-view separates us from God. A Word-view draws us into God. How do we keep the God-centered view?
    Perhaps we can be motivated to the Word when we keep verse 17 and others like it foremost in our minds. Day-to-day responsibilities, concerns and work can weary our minds to look to the immediate. Sometimes it’s difficult to see God because he doesn’t seem present. Trials and testings in our lives can chip away our Word view as the world demands much of our attention.
    But let’s remember John’s focus: The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever. Rick Warren writes in The Purpose Driven Life writes, “You are made to last forever.” And “Your life on earth is a preparation for eternity.” He is pointing to John’s admonition to keep our eyes on the eternal Word. We must continually recognize the eternal is our home. The world is not.
    Keep focused, then, on the eternal God. He has made for you through his Son a pathway to his eternal home. God has created a perfect place for you. It is heaven. God’s will is for you to live with him forever. Know the world’s ways have little value in view of your eternal life.
    Yes, keep the Word on your mind, and you will be more inclined to put the world’s matters into their proper perspective. Remember, where you set your eyes is the place you will go. Focus on eternal life.
 
Life Thought: Life is eternal. Live in God’s Word. Prepare to live with him forever.