1st John 2:16. “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.” IN THE WORLD. The flesh is deceitful – never satisfied The smell attracting my attention – before seeing The sounds are strange – at first resistant Soon the attack on my ears has faded – I am responsive The feel of the world is like velvet – smooth and subtle No honest calluses – just blisters on dancing feet The lust of the flesh forges ahead without restraint The world appeals, attracts – and awaits.
On every side the appeal is there – easily seen Signs, books, visuals are everywhere – terrible in attraction All that is around is designed to create – dissatisfaction Nothing is able to fulfill the lust – false perception The eyes take in so much that attracts – claiming attention Much that is seen is so right if focused – direct occupation The eyes that lust for all that they see – serious distraction The world claims as much as possible for the eyes – all deception.
Self-centeredness is a problem to all – selfishness Pride of face has claimed many lives – senselessness Pride of race has stumbled many – hopelessness Pride of accomplishments without humility – foolishness Pride of heritage over which we have no control – perverseness Pride of nationality is also of the world – carefulness Put all of these together – some of these may be good and others bad The lust of the flesh and of the eyes, and pride of life is of the world.
“Holy God, my Father: more and more I can see the attraction the world has on the young, even in my family. Please give me the grace and strength to be consistent in actions and words so they can see I am not compromising what I believe is Thy will for us all – not just for me. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”