How does 1 John 2:17 encourage us to prioritize God's will over worldly desires? The Verse in View “The world is passing away, along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God remains forever.” — 1 John 2:17 Two Competing Agendas: World vs. Will of God • The “world” here is not the planet but the fallen system that opposes God. • Its desires feel urgent and satisfying, yet Scripture labels them temporary. • In contrast, God’s will carries eternal weight and unending significance. What “Worldly Desires” Look Like (see 1 John 2:16) • Desires of the flesh — cravings for physical gratification. • Desires of the eyes — coveting what looks impressive. • Pride of life — boasting in status, success, or possessions. Why Worldly Desires Fade • James 4:14: “You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” • Proverbs 23:5: Wealth “flies away like an eagle.” • 1 Peter 1:24: “The grass withers and the flower falls.” Worldly pursuits, no matter how thrilling, share the same expiration date. The Enduring Promise for Obedience • 1 John 2:17 makes a sweeping guarantee: doing God’s will means “remains forever.” • John 6:27 calls us to “food that endures to eternal life.” • Matthew 6:19-21 urges storing treasures “in heaven.” When the world’s lights shut off, obedience to God’s will keeps shining. Practical Ways to Prioritize God’s Will • Stay saturated in Scripture: Truth counteracts cultural pressure (Romans 12:2). • Cultivate prayerful dependence: Aligns desires with God’s heart. • Invest in people, not just projects: Relationships carry into eternity. • Serve in the local church: God’s mission outlives every earthly empire. • Hold possessions loosely: Generosity transfers wealth to heaven’s account. • Practice daily surrender: “Not my will, but Yours” becomes a lifestyle. The Payoff: Lasting Joy, Lasting Legacy • Psalm 37:4 assures that delighting in the Lord shapes and satisfies our desires. • Obedience today secures joy that tomorrow can’t erase. • The world evaporates; the believer who walks in God’s will never does. |
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