Tuesday: Love the Creator above the Created

This week’s BIG IDEA:  Divided people are distracted by the surface. Devoted people see the heart of the matter.

Scripture of the Day:  

“Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever." - 1 John 2:15-17 (NIV)

John's message is clear: the allure of the world is a distraction from the eternal love of the Father. When we attach our hearts to the transient pleasures and accolades the world offers, we diminish our capacity to embrace the fullness of God's love. These distractions, categorized into the lust of the flesh, the eyes, and the pride of life, ultimately lead us away from the life God intends for us.

While the world's attractions may appear enticing, they are ultimately fleeting. Our true fulfillment comes when we align our desires with God's eternal purposes. This means focusing on His will, which brings satisfaction and joy beyond anything this world can offer. As believers, we're called to resist the pull of these temporal distractions and anchor ourselves in the eternal promises of God.

Breaking free from the world's grip requires us to intentionally pursue a deeper relationship with God. As we commit to doing His will, we become more attuned to His desires for our lives, leading us to everlasting life and true contentment. When God becomes our focus, we find the love and fulfillment our hearts truly yearn for.

Action Step: 

Reflect on where your affections have been misaligned with God's will. Make the conscious decision to realign your desires by focusing more on God's eternal promise.

Prayer: 

Lord, I desire to love You above all else. Help me resist the distractions of the world and align my life with Your eternal purpose. Amen.

Song of the Day:

Michael W. Smith - Above All (Live)