“Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world--the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does--comes not from the Father but from the world.” – 1 John 2:15-16
Henri J.M. Nouwen, in his book “Home Tonight: Further Reflections on the Parable of the Prodigal Son,” writes the following:
“Since I was very young, my life has been dominated by two strong voices. The first said, “Make it in the world and be sure you can do it on your own.” And the other voice said, “Whatever you do for the rest of your life, even if it’s not very important, be sure you hold on to the love of Jesus.” My father was a little more inclined to say the first and my mother the second. But the voices were strong.
“Make your mark. Be able to show the world you can do it by yourself and that you are not afraid. Go as far as you want to go and be a man. Be a good older son and brother, and be sure you really do something relevant.” And the other said, “Don’t lose touch with Jesus, who chose a very humble and simple way. Jesus, by his life and death, will be your example for living.
I’ve struggled because one voice seemed to be asking me for upward mobility and the other for downward mobility, and I was never sure how to do both at the same time.”
In all things, listen to the voice of Jesus. Today, in prayer, thank Jesus for all that He is and seek to resemble Him in all that you do.
"Love not the world, for it is a moth in a Christian's life." - John Bunyan
God’s Word: “but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed.” – James 1:14
A Few Clouds, 59°