You shall not plow with an ox and a donkey together.Deuteronomy 22:10 (ESV)
For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life —is not from the Father but is from the world.1 John 2:16 (ESV)
It is not wise to hitch an ox and a donkey together for plowing. In the same way, the Bible warns that the person who wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.
In 2 Timothy 4:10, Paul was deeply let down by Demas who having loved this present world, deserted him. The tragedy of Demas is still being lived out today by those who choose the temporary benefits of this world over the eternal riches of heaven.
1 John 2:15 is clear about the spiritual state of those who love the world: “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them.”
Abba Father, help us ward off the worldly temptation by the power of the Holy Spirit and Your Word. Let us realise and focus on the truth to crucify our flesh and be alive to God in Christ Jesus. The righteous shall live by faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Janice Ho
