Life can be very complex. With all the interactions, differing perspectives, and varying occurrences around us, it can become complicated. However, sometimes it is through focusing on some basic truths that we are enabled to keep things in balance.
It has been noted that “There are two principles of life that we should consider: 1) Use things, not people. 2) Love people, not things.”
John urged. . .
“(15) Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. (16) For all that is in the world — the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life — is not from the Father but is from the world. (17) And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.” (1 John 2:15-17 ESV)
The loving of the world here is not as noted in John 3:16 which was God’s love for humanity that was foundational to the sending of the Son. It is a love for the “stuff” of the world we are not to be drawn into, as that can become a distraction capable of leading away from God and the life He desires us to live. (note 1 Timothy 6:9-10) Let us guard against allowing that which does not last to capture our life focus while we instead discern how some of it can be used in godly ways!
In contrast to this, John went on to state. . .
“(11) For this is the message that you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another.” (1 John 3:11 ESV)
John also noted some ways in which that true love manifests itself. (1 John 3:16-18) Therefore, as love is an abiding characteristic of God (1 John 4:8), the godly characteristics of it (1 Corinthians 13:4-7) are to remain foundational to our life interactions. May we maintain a balanced perspective of using what we have to serve in godly ways as we demonstrate a genuine love for souls around us!
Have a great day DULY LOVING IN GODLY WAYS!
Carl
