READ – 1 John 2:15-29
Even when we know we have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us, the things of this world compete for our allegiance to Christ. The “…craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions,” all compete for our affection.
John tells us that the things of this world are passing away. All that really matters are eternal things. And yet we chase the possessions, power and pleasure that this world dangles in front of our hungry eyes despite the fact that they’re all temporary and only serve to lead us astray.
The antidote to the allure of worldly affections is to live life according to the Holy Spirit. John writes,
But you have received the Holy Spirit, and he lives within you, so you don’t need anyone to teach you what is true. For the Spirit teaches you everything you need to know, and what he teaches is true—it is not a lie. So just as he has taught you, remain in fellowship with Christ.
Living in Christ is not automatic. Like any other relationship there has to be ongoing communication and interaction. The only way your relationship with Christ will grow is by spending time with him. When you do, the Holy Spirit’s influence in your life grows, too, giving you confidence, “…so that when he returns, you will be full of courage and not shrink back from him in shame.”