Pre-Occupation

1 John 2:15-16

Some people think that worldliness only has to do with external behavior.  The people we associate with, the places we go, the activities we enjoy.  But worldliness affects us internally because it begins in the heart and is characterized by three attitudes: 1 preoccupation with gratifying physical desires (physical pleasure), 2 the accumulation of things (bowing to the god of materialism), and 3 pride in our achievements and possessions (obsession with our status or importance).  When the serpent tempted Eve (Genesis 3:6), he tempted her in these areas.  When the devil tempted Jesus in the wilderness, these were also his three areas of attack (Matthew 4:1-11) By contrast, God values self-control, generosity and a commitment to humble service. 

Questions for further thought:
1. What values are most important to you?
2. Do your actions reflect the world’s values or God’s values?

​Challenge: It is possible to give the impression of avoiding worldly pleasures while still harboring worldly desires in one’s heart.  But, like Jesus, we should love sinners and spend time with them while closely adhering to the values of God’s Kingdom.  Ask yourself while you go about your day today, “Am I doing this for God?  or am I doing this for myself?”  If you don’t like the answer.  Try to change your perspective.