Before I ever learned John 3:16; the very first Bible verse I ever memorized as a new Christian was 1 John 2:17. Looking back, I can say that it was a great verse to recall to mind when faced with pressing temptations in my teenage years. It reads:

“And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.”

Its been said that a picture paints a thousand words; sometimes a song achieves the same purpose. Here are two songs that portray the absolute contrast between on one side, the world; and on the other side, the kingdom of God where closeness with the Master Himself is the ultimate prize, the most valued treasure.

The world has great drawing power. There is no doubt about that. The pull is so intriguing to us that ONLY a stronger desire can overcome it.

‘Bright Lights Bigger City’ by Cee Lo Green

I am not sure that there could be a more fitting music video than this one above to portray the attractions of this world, described as “the passing pleasures of sin” in the book of Hebrews. Yet hear the word of the Lord:

“Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world— the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.” – 1 John 2:15-17

One man said he had two horses living inside him; one a beautiful white horse called holiness; the other a dark foreboding horse called covetousness.

When asked which horse wins, his answer was simple, plain and to the point:

“The horse that wins is the one I feed!”

Now in contrast, here is a song called “Holiness” by Micah Stampley

May I ask you a question?

Which horse will you feed today?