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| Photo by Karolina Grabowska |
Christians
have to be on guard against the allures of the world. Every Christian has to
ask himself, “Do I Love the World?” If so, one has to turn from this and give 100
percent to their Christian walk. In essence, one has to become a “sell-out.”
When we
usually hear the term “sell-out,” it is usually in a derogatory manner. Someone
who is a sell-out has forsaken an alliance for another. We have to become
“sell-outs” for Christ. We have to remain commitment to Christ and the faith.
We have to forsake the world and the lusts thereof. If we are not careful, the
world will ensnare us with its enticements.
Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. (I John 2:15)
We have
to break our allegiance with the world. We cannot think, act, and live as
unbelievers. In addition, we have to become sell-outs to friends and
family at times; if not, we will not be able to say assuredly that we do not
love the world. We cannot allow friendships and family relations to stunt us in
our growth. Jesus challenged His listeners in this regard,
If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. Luke 14:26 (KJV)
We must
have healthy family, friend, and other interpersonal relationships. These will
help us to overcome the world and not submit to its
seductions. Acquaintances can sometimes keep us in familiar patterns and
habits. To break this, separation is sometimes needed. Separation is not always
a physical separation. However, a separation from the influence of ungodly
family and friends is required.
We must
also forsake selfish motives, ambitions, and desires. These attributes will
bring stagnation to our spiritual growth. We must recognize them and remove
them. This is the only way we can avoid the allure and attractions of the
world.
We must
remember to forsake the world and its lusts, forsake the influence of
ungodly family and friends, and forsake selfish motives and ambitions. If
we will do these things, we can give an answer to the question of whether we
love the world or no.
If we do not love the world, our commitment
to Christ can remain unwavering.
