When engaging in various pursuits of life, sometimes people talk about being in it to win it. With a focus fixed on what they are set on accomplishing for themselves, they are all in for the victory as they play or work hard to win it all!
As we consider our life in this world, what is our focus for being in it? Though we acknowledge it is the Lord Who ultimately brings victory on our behalf (i.e. Romans 8:37; 1 Corinthians 15:54-57; 1 John 5:4), are we still giving due consideration to our presence in this world?
As Jesus prayed for His disciples while with them in the upper room, He noted their connection with the world as we read. . .
“(14) I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. (15) I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. (16) They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. (17) Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. (18) As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. (19) And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth.” (John 17:14-19 ESV)
Though the Apostles were not of the world, they were in it. And though Jesus prayed for their sanctification (being set apart just as He was set apart in His mission) and their protection, He did not ask for them to be taken out of the world. A desire to depart would reveal a recognition this world was not their home, but were merely passing through. A desire to remain would reveal an acknowledgement there was still the Lord’s work in which to engage. To remain in the world was the means by which they would both exemplify and share the truth of God. It would also be their means of being the salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16) followers of Jesus have been called to be! This was a focus shared also by Paul (Philippians 1:19-26) as he pressed on in service to the Lord and others.
We must guard against becoming so focused on what we want to get from the world that we forget the Divine purpose for which we are in it! As we understand our presence in this world, an important thing to keep in mind is that we are not in the world to be blessed by it, but to bless it with the message of truth and hope in Christ that we share and by the loving Christian service in which we engage. Blessed of God, may we be a blessing!
Have a great day REMAINING WILLING TO SERVE THE DIVINE WILL!
Carl
