Do not be conformed to this world...

Father, your creation declares your greatness and lovingkindness, encouraging statements of pure truth in our daily walk... Self-centered friendship with the world should never be misconstrued as a healthy thing for our souls. For sure, the world is tricky, luring us into its web of deceit and promises of happiness found in the possessions of this life. Yes, we love our stuff, the kind of objects of affection that thrill our souls, leading us deeper and deeper into the pursuit of all things. The problem is, there's no end to this journey, only expansion into the previously unexplored highways and byways of an "I ain't never satisfied" life and lifestyle! Jesus said in Matthew 16:26, "For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?" and Paul writing to all those in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." (Romans 12:2) Perhaps pure joy should be our pursuit, only to be discovered in a life everlasting, a life filled with inexplicable bliss, a life in and with Jesus our Lord... Thank you, Jesus, for showing us that you are the way, the truth, and the life; THE answer for those committed to seeking the truth in all things!