Stand Firm Against Worldliness

  I sure hate to be the bearer of bad news, but the reality is all around us that the world is not getting any better. I am not approaching this as pessimist, but truly as a Biblicist. We live in a “present evil world” (Gal. 1:4); where we are hated and persecuted if we are genuine followers of Christ (2 Tim 3:12; Jn 15:18). The world cannot and will not accept nonconformists, for those that live a separated and pure life expose the darkness, shamefulness, and lostness of the world’s existence (Jn. 3:19-20). Just when you think that nothing could shock the senses of us as believers, the world promotes something worse that is so sordid, grotesque and debased (2 Tim. 3:13). These days and times are certainly perilous, and we dare not minimize the dangerous nature of this age in which we live (2 Tim 3:1-7). The world’s allurement has begun to deeply appeal, more and more, to those of the church, and has drawn many away from the truthfulness of the Scriptures and practice of the faith (1 Tim. 4:1-3). Large numbers have no ear to hear God’s Word, nor follow God’s truth. The world’s philosophies are ingrained upon hearts and minds to the extent that they are accepted and defended as a better alternative that God’s ways, for they sound so good and appeal to the fleshly desires (2 Tim. 4:3-4).  The question arises, “if the foundation are being destroyed, what can the righteous do?” (Psalm 11:3).

  The righteous must deepen their love for God by renewing their minds daily through the Word of God (Romans 12:2). Only then can we fortify our hearts against a love for the world and its destructive force (1 Jn. 2:14-18). It is clear that we become like the company that we keep (1 Cor. 15:34). Therefore, separation from worldly influences is essential.  Discard and replace some of the reading, listening, and viewing habits. Also, make new and godly friends, while disassociating with those that would tear you down rather than build you up in the faith. Stop going down the same ole path, to the same ole places. Then, you must pray so that you do not fall into temptation (Matt. 26:41; 5:13).