John 17:15-16 “‘15 I do not ask You to take them out of the world, but to keep them from the evil one.  16 They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.’”

NOT OF THIS WORLD

This world is not our home.  As believers, we know that.  It is a temporary place – a place we are just visiting.  Our real home is heaven.  But it is the only home we have right now, so we need to make the most of it.  Jesus knew that.  He said as much when he said, “I do not ask You to take them out of the world, but to keep them from the evil one.”

Now understand something.  If God wanted, He could instantly take us to heaven when we are saved.  We could say, “I believe,” and instantly be there.  As cool as that may seem, He wants us to stay here and spread the good news.  And because He does, He protects us from the evil one, who wants nothing more than to tear us down.

TEACHING MOMENT

I love hearing children’s descriptions of heaven.  They are beautiful, simple and creative.  We should talk to our children about heaven.  But we need to spend more time teaching them how to live here on this earth.  They need to know that Jesus said these words about being here.  John 16 is a great chapter about that.

Take some time and read this to them.  And I mean, take some time.  There is so much in this chapter.  But it is so good.  It is so reassuring.  It can embolden your children to live for Jesus knowing He is cheering them on.

I want to live with the Word of God insulating me from the fiery darts of Satan.  There is NOTHING he can do to me, unless the Lord allows it.  The Word protects my mind and spirit.  It gives me the strength to carry on when I think I can’t make it another day.  The Word allows me to walk into any room equipped to share the good news.  It’s not because of me.  It’s all because of Him.

Father, You are my protector.  I know that and believe that.  I trust You to be my insulator.  Keep me from isolating myself from the lost who so desperately need to hear from You.