For Thought and Meditation - Sunday, January 23

[Pine Baron]

Good morning all. A great message and reminder in today's devotion / blessing from Hagee Ministries. Have a safe and blessed day.

1 John 2:15

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.

Our cravings are created and controlled by the things that we see, hear, and experience.

The entertainment industry banks on our susceptibility to the images that it broadcasts: the miracle cream that erases wrinkles, the protein shakes that promise the perfect body, the happily-ever-after portrayed by the beautiful couple living in the huge house with the perfect children.

Where are our eyes focused? Are we looking at the distractions of this world or the Gospel truth? Are we listening to the opinions of imperfect others, or are we tuned in to the revelations of God? Are we experiencing the pressure of unrealistic expectations or the peace of His Spirit?

In today’s verse, John warns us not to love the world or its things. We must guard our hearts against its allures. Love for this world squeezes out our love for the Father. Demanding our own way, coveting the goods and gadgets, desiring to feel important – all of these isolate us from God.

What do we crave most? Nothing must edge out God’s presence in our lives. Nothing should consume us more than our hunger for Him. Nothing else deserves our devotion and delight. Our priority is loving Him.

Blessing:

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you and give you His peace. May you seek the kingdom of God and all His righteousness first and foremost, and He will be faithful to add everything that you need. Give praise to the only One worthy to receive it!

[USMC87]

Amen, what would it benefit if I won the world and lost my soul?

[Wayne Smith]

There is a multibillion dollar industry in this world who's only purpose is to convince you that you are not adequate and that what you have is not enough. It is called the advertising industry. Remember this when you see a commercial - of any type. Ask yourself how it is designed to make you uncomfortable with who you are or what you have, and you will find that you become immune to these messages.

[Markopolo]

Great devotional!

[ioon44]

Keep your eyes on Jesus and the things of this world will grow strangely dim.

[GhostHawk]

Put your treasure not in this world, but in Heaven. Where it can not be stolen, rust, tarnish, corrode or wither away.

Do good works in his name and pile up your treasure in heaven.

Blessed be the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.

Thank you Lord for all the many blessings you have showered upon me.