Love Not the World

[Thompson, Darryl]

Love Not the World 

     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. 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. 1 John
2:15, 16  

     The youth living in this age will have a stern battle to fight if
they make right principles their rule of action. It is the highest
effort of a large class in society to do as others do, to shape their
course according to the world's standard. Like the empty bubble or the
worthless weed, they drift with the current. They have no individuality,
no moral independence. The approval of the world is of more value to
them than the approval of God or the esteem of those whom He esteems.
Their only motive or rule of action is policy. As they do not value
truth or act from principle, no dependence can be placed upon them. They
are the sport of Satan's temptations. They have no true respect for
themselves and no real happiness in life. This class are to be pitied
for their weakness and folly, and their example should be shunned by all
who desire to be truly worthy of respect. But instead of this, their
society is too often courted, and they seem to exert a fascinating
power, well-nigh impossible to break. . . .  

     In forming your opinions and choosing your associates let reason
and the fear of God be your guide. Be firm in your purpose here,
regardless of the opinions which others may entertain concerning you.
When God's requirements lead you to an opposite course from that which
your associates are pursuing, go resolutely forward, whether you follow
many or few. Whatever God's Word condemns, that reject even though the
whole world adopt and advocate it. . . .  

     Those who are drifting with the tide, who love pleasure and
self-indulgence, and choose the easier way, regardless of principle so
long as their desires are gratified--these will never stand with the
overcomers around the great white throne. 

>From My Life Today - Page 71