this world. By Thomas Read, Christian
Experience. Do not be conformed to this world. Romans chapter 12 verse 2. The
very admonition implies the danger of worldly conformity and the
proneness of the heart to earthly things, Who can say that he is
always raised above the undue influence of terrestrial objects,
that he is daily passing, as it were, upon tiptoe across this
world of vanity? Alas! alas! we too often sink
into the mire of earthly-mindedness, and have our thoughts absorbed
amid the trifles of a day. But what can this world profit
us? This world can neither secure us against temporal evils nor
save us from eternal misery. This world cannot for a single
moment prolong our existence here or make that existence peaceful
and happy. This world is often a clog but
never a help in moments of spiritual distress. And yet we love this
world, though, by its deceitful smile. It robs us of our peace,
entangles us in its snares, and would, if left under its power,
eventually destroy our souls. This world would no longer sway
our affections, did we daily reflect how quickly it is passing
away. The heavenly meanderness and
contempt of this world, which shone so brightly in the lives
of the first Christians, may well cause us to blush. These
devoted followers of a crucified Redeemer did not study those
arts of splendor which have overspread this world. When the honor of
their Divine Master required the sacrifice, they could trample
underfoot those profits and pleasures which ensnare and enslave mankind. They looked upon the delights
and advantages of this world as things not worthy to arrest
their affections in their journey homeward. Their spirits breathed
in too pure an air to be caught with the delusive charms of this
lower world. It was their continual regard
to dwell within the prospect of eternity. All these faithful
ones died without receiving what God had promised them, but they
saw it all from a distance and welcomed the promises of God.
They agreed that they were no more than foreigners and pilgrims
here on earth. Hebrews 11.13