the world-war
"I am talking about those who are set upon the things of this world." —Philippians 3:19
There are people who "will end in disaster" (Phil 3:19), whose "god is their belly and their glory is in their shame" (Phil 3:19). In His word, the Lord calls these people "enemies of the cross of Christ" (Phil 3:18). Who are these people? "I am talking about those who are set upon the things of this world" (Phil 3:19).
Although we are to love the world as Christ loves it (see Jn 3:16) and be the light to the world (Mt 5:14), we are not to be of the world any more than Jesus is of the world, for He has chosen us out of the world (Jn 15:19). Therefore, we must have no love for the things that "the world affords" — "the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life" (1 Jn 2:15-16, KJV). Jesus has given us His Father's word, and the world has hated us for it (Jn 17:14). However, Jesus has sent us "the sword of the Spirit, the word of God" (Eph 6:17), to prove the world wrong (Jn 16:8). By the Spirit and through the cross, "the world has been crucified" to us, and we "to the world" (Gal 6:14). Thus, if we are set on the things of the world, we are enemies of the cross, God's word, and the Holy Spirit.
Be crucified to the world and embrace the cross daily for love of Jesus (Lk 9:23).
Prayer: Father, teach me what You taught Pope John Paul II about the "culture of death."
Promise: "You whom I so love and long for, you who are my joy and my crown, continue, my dear ones, to stand firm in the Lord." —Phil 4:1
Praise: James incorporated a cross into his business logo as a witness for Christ crucified.
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The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.
Nihil Obstat: Reverend Robert L. Hagedorn, April 4, 1998
Imprimatur: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 8, 1998