Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God, James 4:4 NKJV.
The spirit of the world (Greek aion) is one of the perennial enemies of the believer. World used in this context refers to the entire world system—to all its values, mind-set, philosophies of life, and priorities that run contrary to the will and way of God.
The world suggests that you turn to the systems of the world and turn away from Godliness and developing your relationship with God. But Jesus said a life without God’s influence is worthless, regardless of its appearance (Mark 8:36, 3 7).
The Word of God in Romans 12: 2 provides a strategy to combat the pull of the world, through the renewal, or “reprogramming,” of our minds. The power of the Holy Spirit can transform our minds (Phil. 2:5, 13; Titus 3:5) and redirect us toward the things of God (Phil.4:8).
To gain victory over Satan and his world system, resist him! To gain victory over the world, renew your mind!
Oct 21, 2013 @ 22:43:03
Amen, Manny. The only way to renew our minds is by knowing God’s Word.
Also, of course, as you have noted:
“The power of the Holy Spirit can transform our minds (Phil. 2:5, 13; Titus 3:5) and redirect us toward the things of God (Phil.4:8).”
As the world continues to deteriorate, it seems that more and more are listening to the father of lies. All one has to do is watch the news. Most are not heeding the verses quoted here. No wonder so many wander aimlessly. Their goals have only to do with the things of the world.
May God grant us the grace to avoid being stained by the aion.
God’s blessings my friend…
Oct 22, 2013 @ 17:37:20
I agree Chris, the aion is rapidly encroaching upon much of the church in many ways. We will hardly recognize it in a few more years should our Lord tarry.
Oct 22, 2013 @ 11:12:36
Many forget that adultery doesn’t just allude to sexual intimacy! Great post!
Oct 22, 2013 @ 17:39:59
Kingintraining, I agree it is not just sexual. It encompasses a broad front. The worst is of course spiritual adultery. Then maybe an affair with the ways of the world.