Struggles on the Journey – The Influences of the World

Miscalculating my ability to resist the subtle influences of the world around me can result in not-so-subtle negative outcomes in my life. I am called to be in the world but  not of the world. So what are my choices when the world’s sin and wickedness crowd in on me?

Sometimes running from temptation is the answer.  Joseph provides the example as he ran from the temptations of Potiphar’s wife.  (Genesis 39:12)

Sometimes avoidance is the answer.  Paul told Timothy,

You must understand this, that in the last days distressing times will come. For people will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, inhuman, implacable, slanderers, profligates, brutes, haters of good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, holding to the outward form of godliness but denying its power. Avoid them!  (2 Timothy 3:1-5 NRSV)

Running away and avoiding are critical choices that I must regularly make on my journey.  Will you join me this week?

Sharing the journey with you,