I was reading my Bible this morning. First I read 1st John 2:15-17:

"Love not the world, nor the things in the world. If anyone should 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."

I struggle with this sometimes, because I live in an affluent, materialistic culture, and there are many things of the world I take great pleasure in and enjoy. So I talked to God about it this morning. I said, "Lord, you know I enjoy things of the world very much, but I love You more. Show me what is the difference between enjoying the world and loving the world."

I looked at the passage again, that lists the things of this world:

• lust of the flesh--all fleshly pleasures, like food and wine, chocolate and sweets, also sensual pleasures, including massage, pedicures, etc.
• lust of the eyes--I think this refers to materialism. I see it, and I want it.
• the pride of life--this is a tough one. I happen to LOVE getting recognition for accomplishments; in fact, I rely on it.

I needed a picture of what someone looks like who "loves the world." And guess what? God showed me that picture right away, when I turned to my daily reading in Matthew 23: 1-8:

"Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples, saying, 'The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat; all therefore whatsoever they bid you, observe, but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not. For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers. But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries [on their priests robes], and enlarge the borders of their garments, and love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi. But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren."

God gave me an example of what a person looks like who loves the world. As you can see, they care more for their station in life, the clothes they wear and how their garments make them superior to others, having the best seats at feasts, being looked up to by everyone, showing off their worldly power and abilities, having others follow them, than they do for the Lord. This picture shows not only someone who lords their power over others (pride of life), but also that they are used to the finer things of life--clothes, food, etc. (lust of the flesh and lust of the eyes)

Thank you, Lord, for showing me. If I enjoy my day, or a sunrise, or a tasty Bubble Tea, it's because I enjoy You first, and I enjoy what I see of You in everything around me. If I had none of these, still I would enjoy You.

your bride, Jerilyn