Like sheep that wander from the fold, we too can fall prey to the subtleties of temptation. When our attention is fixed on the ways of this world, its grip may be so tight that we are no longer free to follow the Shepherd.
We become like lambs whose wool is 'entangled by thorns'.
If we are not careful, our soul can be lured away from the path of discipleship and snagged by the bramble bushes of popular philosophy, the godless values of society, and the carnal pleasures of sin.
How easily this can take place in an increasingly materialistic, hedonistic, ego-centric society ...
In the last days, grievous times will come. For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, fierce, not lovers of good, traitors, headstrong, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God. 2 Timothy 3:1-4
Being a Christian is contrary to everything this world offers. We are to be 'alert and sober' concerning that which seeks to draw us away from faith in Christ.
Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Colossians 3:2-4
Prophesy dictates that the rapture of the church is at hand. We should be anxiously awaiting the Lord's return ...
Calvin - The mind of a Christian ought not to be filled with thoughts of earthly things or find satisfaction in them, for we ought to be living as if we might have to leave this world at any moment. If meditation on the heavenly life were the prevailing sentiment in our hearts, the world would have no influence in detaining us.
Are you so identified with the cares of this life that leaving it all behind troubles your conscience? Examine your priorities, pilgrim; are they ordered by God? Solomon gives wise counsel concerning your walk of faith ...
Guard your heart above all else, for it is the source of life ... Let your eyes look forward; fix your gaze straight ahead. Carefully consider the path for your feet, and all your ways will be established. Don’t turn to the right or left; keep your feet away from evil. Proverbs 4:23-27
You live in this world, but you must not let this world live in you.
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