Overcoming Fear of Death
We won’t talk about it. We seldom think about it. The fear of death is so deeply engrained within us, that we avoid even the momentary consideration of it. Yet death is an appointment which all of us have, and must keep; though the timing of this certain appointment is seldom revealed far ahead of time. Death is considered to be a negative subject, and therefore laid aside so that we may be “positive” people, enjoying every moment of life (?) as best we are able. When was the last time that you considered death, or spoke with someone about it?
It is amazing to observe the preparedness with which many meet their earthly appointments! Such preparations could include shopping, study, and extensive attention to personal hygiene. Yet none of these fleeting, temporal events is of any significance when compared to our appointed time of death, which has eternal consequences (II Corinthians 4:16-18). Not being aware of the timing of this appointment should only motivate us to be prepared for it at all times!
This article is primarily addressing those individuals who profess Jesus Christ to be their savior and Lord. If you have truly been saved through Christ, your attitude toward death should especially reflect that relationship! I have witnessed many disturbing tendencies, regarding death, among “God’s people” of today. Frankly, the spiritual fruits (Matthew 7:20) being exhibited in this area do not suggest a right relationship with the Lord. I am not judging you; death is quite naturally a disturbing consideration. This article is written for the edification of the believer in overcoming fear of death. This is a major benefit that God wants His people to have, so we dare not neglect it!
Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. Hebrews 4:1
By speaking about the fear of death, I think most people will understand my meaning. But for those who have questions, some parameters should be observed. As Christians, we are to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit (John 16:13), in accordance with God’s written Word (II Timothy 3:16). We will always use scriptural guidelines to verify the “spirit” we are being led by; the true Holy Ghost will never lead us in a way which contradicts the Word. This would be an example of a “kingdom divided against itself.”
With these things in mind, we are not to be careless about endangering our health or lives. True followers of Christ are given the Holy Spirit, so that we then are scripturally referred to as the temple of God (I Corinthians 3:16). We are to use good sense, and seek God for wisdom concerning the circumstances we encounter.
This is where the Holy Spirit’s leading is so vital to have, and be assured of! There are many things that might be considered too risky to attempt. If we presume that God will defend or save us, without His direct leading, we could be forcing a test upon God (Luke 4:12). Yet when that same “risky” action is attempted, with the full assurance of it being in God’s will, all things are possible! One way to be certain of the Lord’s leading, is that there will always be a purpose behind it, and/or you can find direct examples of Biblical support. Remember to always “be careful for nothing: but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God (Philippians 4:6). Our God has promised also, that if we trust in Him with all our heart, and lean not to our own understanding; we then acknowledge Him in all our ways, and He WILL direct our path! That is a promise from the Lord that we can stand on in faith, being valid beyond all that we see or feel (see Proverbs 3:5,6, and Hebrews 11:1).
We need also look briefly to the fear of the Lord, which is so often spoken of Biblically. This is indeed a valid “fear,” albeit many times misunderstood. If one does not know Christ for salvation, true fear should exist in this person’s heart! Yet God does not want His own children to live in terror regarding Him. This is not the desire of Him who longs to be our heavenly Father (I John 3:1).
For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: Romans 8:14-16
So what, then, is the balance of the Word regarding the fear of the Lord? Why do some places indicate a true fear, and other places emphasize love? We could sum up good, Godly fear by defining it as obedience, reverence, or respect. But I think that two simple verses can indicate to us the proper place of Godly fear in our lives. They are Proverbs 9:10 and I John 4:18.
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. Proverbs 9:10
We can see here that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; it should hopefully not be where we end up! This aspect makes sense, for few things will get your attention the way something does which makes you afraid. It was such a far of Hell that stirred within myself the great concern for my soul’s condition.
The type of fear being referred to here should be regarded as tangibly being afraid. The Bible uses the term “fear,” or phrase “fear of the Lord” in many places, but the exact application for each use will be slightly different. This is where we must “rightly divide the Word,” and let the Holy Spirit lead us into correct understanding (see II Timothy 2:15; I John 2:27).
Other verses which help to elaborate on Proverbs 9:10 would be Proverbs 16:6 and Matthew 10:28. Proverbs 16:6 shows us that by fear of the Lord, men depart from evil. So it has been with many under great trial; individuals who have been near death, and begin to fear the judgment of God which threatens soon to follow! They make pledges to the Lord, and begin to depart from evil.
In Matthew 10:28, Jesus clearly shows us how real our fear should be. We are told not to fear the destruction of our bodies, but rather to fear Him who can cast both body and soul into Hell. Jesus is speaking of Himself (John 5:22).
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. I John 4:18
As we then grow spiritually in the Lord, we are perfected in love. A healthy fear of the Lord compels us to begin our spiritual search, but it is then love that perfects us in becoming like Christ.
How do we know if we are truly perfected in love, or are proceeding with inappropriate fear? We are shown in this verse that fear has torment. What kind of torment? I John 5:3 reveals a key determiner in this to be the keeping of God’s commandments (not meaning merely the official Ten Commandments). When we keep God’s commandments (or have determined to do so), they should not be a grief to us. That is because when one is truly saved, they become a new creature in Christ (II Corinthians 5:17). We go from a rebellion against God, to a love for Him that desires earnestly to please Him. If the instructions God gives us cause great grief, how can it be that we have been transformed through Christ. In other words, such an individual would be tormented in obeying God’s laws, rather than desirous to do so. It is an obedience that comes from fear, rather than sincere love. A solid example of this behavior can be found in II Kings 17 (please read), which shows us of nations which “feared the Lord, and served their own gods.” See verses 33 and 41. Sounds a lot like America today, doesn’t it? Remember that there is nothing new under the sun (Ecclesiastes 1:9).
Our God has given us that which enables us to overcome fear. Having a certain amount of fear in any given situation is quite natural, and I don’t want you to feel condemned because of it. But faith in God will overcome these fears, as our love for Christ compels us to please Him in every way. We know by the promise He has given us, that our lives (spiritual—eternal) are safe with Him.
The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion. Proverbs 28:1
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. I Corinthians 10:13
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. II Timothy 1:7
Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: Hebrews 12:28
In truth, undue fearfulness testifies against a soul being in right relationship with Christ. It may simply be a point of growth that you need to come into, but it could be far more serious than that! Bring it to the Lord, for His direct guidance in your life regarding fear. But consider carefully this sombering verse found in Revelation 21:8. I have added bold type for emphasis.
But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. Revelation 21:8
This verse’s implications are enormous; the “fearful” are being put into the same category as murderers, sorcerers, and idolaters! The adjective of fearful is even separate from “the unbelieving.” This implies that there will be those who believe, or profess to believe, but they will still be fearful. Fearful in such a way, that it costs them their souls. Such instances are also referenced in places such as James 2:19, “…the devils also believe, and tremble.” Only God knows the true condition of each heart, but beware when you find yourself being overly fearful in life’s circumstances. It is certainly an indicator to turn to the Lord for more faith (Hebrews 11:6).
There really is no greater and more common fear experienced than the fear of death. God’s Word has provided for us well in overcoming the fear of death. I’ve chosen some scriptures to look at which regard this subject, either directly or by implication. It is certainly not an exhaustive list, and I would encourage you in the Lord to do your own study.
As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth. For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more. Psalm 103:15,16
Life is short, and time goes by very quickly; even for those who have lived comparatively “long” lives of 80 years or more! It makes sense to be prepared for it. Our loving God made a way for that preparation, as only He can, through Jesus Christ His Son. We who are in Christ should not be preoccupied with a fear of death.
Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints. Psalm 116:15
Our deaths (that of His saints) is precious to the Lord! We will be eternally in unseparated fellowship with our savior! The time of pain on earth is over, and it will be time for our true family reunion!
The righteous perisheth, and no man layeth it to heart: and merciful men are taken away, none considering that the righteous is taken away from the evil to come. He shall enter into peace: they shall rest in their beds, each one walking in his uprightness. Isaiah 57:1,2
These verses should be precious to those with deceased loved ones in the Lord. Many times, God in His mercy will take one of His own in order to spare them further trouble in this world. We ought to be most concerned with eternal values; for these are lasting.
The Old Testament contains numerous promises of a long life (in the flesh) for those walking uprightly, however, you will not find such promises in the New Testament; the time in which we are living. Before the gift of the Holy Spirit, external signs were used by God for His people. Long life was one way, a visible way, to see God’s anointing or blessing. Now, however, God lives inside each believer through the Holy Ghost. Other signs, or spiritual “fruit” will be apparent which will show forth the Lord’s presence (such as mentioned in Mark 16:17-20).
Our relationship with Christ is the only thing that will be of everlasting value. Whether we die in advanced age while sleeping, or are violently killed by a gunman, we will die. Yet we need never fear this time, as long as we walk uprightly in Christ.
Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. Luke 21:26
These last days will be a time of great fear for all of mankind. We see this everywhere today! People afraid of not only what is, but what might be. “Men’s hearts failing them” is more than a referral to physical heart failure; indeed, few people are actually physically scared to death. No, “men’s hearts failing them” can also refer to a loss of courage, or resolve. We are able to see many crises which are coming to our heaven of the earth (Genesis 1:7,8). People are scared. Many have “lost heart” due to the apparent futility of their lives. It has been prophesied to be a big part of mankind’s existence today, but we who belong to Christ should have great hope! It is another way of testifying to the unsaved world around us, when they view us as filled with hope, and without fear!
The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:10
Jesus wants us to have abundant life. This should naturally include a preparedness for death, the way of which He has already provided.
He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal. John 12:25
This verse may seem unrelated upon first consideration. But the real cause for fearing death is usually an inappropriate love for our lives in this world (material, fleshly concerns). If we are truly new creatures in Christ, the condition of things in this world will become increasingly vile in our eyes. That is an evidence of the Holy Spirit within the true believer. We long for that which is perfect to come, which can only be experienced after the death of our physical bodies.
Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. John 14:1-3
Jesus here is promising heaven to His disciples. It is a promise we can count on! He opens this section by encouraging us not to have fear, or worry—but to have faith. I am so looking forward to this time with my Lord!
They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. John 17:16
The “they” Jesus is praying about are His disciples. We need to remember that we are truly not of the world! If we are feeling too comfortable, settled, established in this sinful world, something is wrong!
For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 6:23
Eternal life! The gift we receive through Jesus Christ the Son! This gift, in all its fullness, can only be experienced after the death of the body. One may be a bit nervous about death, but there should also be with it joyful anticipation.
Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. I Corinthians 15:50-58
It is clear that the kingdom of God is not for flesh and blood, for the flesh is corrupt. We may die in the body, but it is only to put away our corruption in favor of the incorruptible (the spirit within us). In this light, death will have “no sting” for the disciples of Christ, but rather, it will be swallowed up in victory! God “giveth us the victory” through our Lord Jesus Christ, praise to His name! This passage was brought forth from God as part of His comfort and reassurance for His children. Cling fast to the sure promises of God’s Word!
Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. II Corinthians 5:6-8
Isn’t this what we should want? To leave the body, and to be present with the Lord? I see so many professing Christians around me, who are desperately clinging to their fleshly lives; in effect, living as if they desire to be absent from the Lord! Something is wrong here, brethren.
According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better: Philippians 1:20-23
We will always live in Christ, whether in a body of flesh or otherwise. But clearly, to be with the Lord is far better! I hope and pray that this sentiment resides within each of you.
But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man…Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. Hebrews 2:9…14,15
Part of Christ’s purpose in coming to this earth (in the flesh), was to deliver us from the bondage of the fear of death. He did that from the deep love within Himself; of God for mankind. We cannot imagine the humiliation Jesus suffered by becoming as His very own creation, but He did it willingly for us in our helplessness. To live in a fear of death dishonors God, and is in effect rejecting a key purpose for which He came.
These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city. Hebrews 11:13-16
Remember that we are on this earth as “strangers and pilgrims.” We do not belong here. Our values, and all that we hold dear, are not typical flesh and blood concerns. We walk by faith, in obedience to how God directs us. Sometimes (if not most times) those directions seem foolish to unsaved flesh and blood. But we are desirous of a better, heavenly country, and it is that for which we press on.
Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. Revelation 2:10
When we are faithful to the Lord unto death (of the body), only then will we receive a crown of life. The time of our deaths will be appointed by God, and most likely will be unknowable. This still should not make death for us a thing to be feared, but rather welcomed.
And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. Revelation 12:11
Believers overcome the devil by the blood of Christ (our sin atonement), their word of testimony (confessing Christ), and they do not love or value their own lives—even unto death. Jesus told us, “…he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.”—From Matthew 10:39. Let us take a long, hard look, through prayer, at where our values truly lie (Matthew 6:19-21).
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. Revelation 21:4
We know that death is a sorrowful time. Even in full assurance of meeting that loved one again in Heaven, the separation which occurred will be painful (John 11:33-36). But Jesus has promised us eternal life, and has also promised to take away death, and all sorrow and pain! I thank God for that. It is a promise to cleave to, given to us for overcoming fear of death.
All of these scriptures are a wonderful testimony concerning our proper attitude toward death. It is also good, however, to review some examples of possible circumstances in everyday life which can challenge us in this area. Our sinful flesh tends to see things with a natural blindness toward applications of spiritual truth. We must be prayerfully diligent, that God would help us to see how His Word applies to us in everyday living.
Scenario #1: Cancer.
Only too many times have I known of professing Christians to face cancer in their lives. There most often then seems to be no consideration for anything other than getting “treatments”, and extending their lives. There is no regard for what God may be teaching them, or for supernatural healing, or not tying your family to enormous debt. Above all, there appears to be no desire to go home and be with the Lord! God does not need medicine to heal you, so why not leave yourself in His hands, whether you will live or die?
It is hard for me to fathom why supposedly “saved” people would undergo torturous (and expensive) radiation treatments, in order to possibly remain “absent from the Lord” for a few more years. Seldom is it a guarantee of even that! It is as if they think that Christ should not be involved in their cancer ordeal at all, instead of readily acknowledging Him as the Lord of every part of their lives. Such people have a truly deep need for preparing to meet God—they just aren’t ready.
Scenario #2: Samaritan laws.
Even many non-believers are familiar with the story of the good Samaritan, told in Luke 10:29-37. Today, however, there are supposed rules of behavior which govern such acts of kindness. Will someone be legally sued for mishandling the injured person? Could the Samaritan receive or transmit a disease while administering help? I hope you can see that the nature of such “rules” is based upon fear. By ignoring those who need help, potential “Samaritans” are only protecting themselves; both their lives, and other self-interests.
God gave to us a different standard! We need to have compassion on those in need, far above any way it might inconvenience us. Christ is our great example in selfless giving. And He makes it clear that we will be held accountable for our inaction in giving others help.
Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not. Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal. Matthew 25:41-46
Scenario #3: Life insurance, retirement funds.
This would go far beyond any ordinary savings. It would amount to “laying up treasure” upon the earth, depending on one’s own arm of strength to deliver, all because of a fear-based distrust of God! It shows that one has “found his life” here, and is overly concerned that materialistic priorities are well-cared for after they are dead.
Our Lord wants to provide for us. He has shown us that if we put Him first, He will provide all of our daily needs (Matthew 6:25-34). Funeral costs here are high, and there are some modest insurance coverages that can basically just help us pay for the funeral. This is reasonable, and many workplaces offer this; some car insurances also offer this as a basic coverage. But many who are obsessed with this life seek far more than that! This is a type of fear of death; it is an unpreparedness for it, spiritually.
Scenario #4: Addiction to the health-care system.
Americans are addicted to doctors! We may be diseased in many ways, but the healing of God has been abandoned in favor of medical procedures and prescription drugs. What does it mean, when a person willingly goes on prescription medications that cost $300 or more monthly? This produces a bondage to mammon (money) in order to “stay alive.” You see, the physician has told them that they must! Many of those claiming to know Christ do this all the time. They take in “faith” that the doctor is right, and apparently should have the final say in terms of the health concerns in their life. What about healing? What about Godly chastening? What about going to Heaven? And is the doctor even right? I know of a woman who had both breasts removed because there was a “history” of breast cancer in her family! She felt that she would surely get the cancer, so her actions were pre-emptive. Pretty radical, huh?
Brethren, we need to trust in the Lord! He is the one who fashioned us in the womb; who created our entire universe out of nothingness, just by speaking! Physicians surely have a role to fill, but we must not esteem them above what is due. Always go to the Lord first; both for healing, and to seek His purpose. Be very slow to let physicians drastically alter your life, especially without seeking the great physician first. Jesus needs to be the Lord of everything in your life—let Him be! If you are listening to a doctor in this way; bound to medicines, surgeries, or what have you—it is an evidence that you are afraid to die, and your priorities aren’t straight! Submit to the Lord—His mercy is from everlasting to everlasting to those who fear Him (Psalms 103:17)!
Another aspect of this is love of family. I have heard people say, “Oh, I’m ready to die—but I want to be here for my family.” Satan has deceived such people! Can you care for your family better than the Lord? Why do you have to remain here for them? This is loving family above Christ, and it is not acceptable to God.
If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. Luke 14:26
Scenario 5: No witnessing for Christ.
Does this sound like a fear of death? Truly, it is just that. Though not all witnessing has direct life-threatening potential in it, that’s where it will end up.
All believers in Christ are guaranteed persecution (II Timothy 3:12). My own witnessing has not been extensive, but persecution comes regularly with what is done. You can be fired, or maybe even not hired, due to a faithful witness to Christ! Many people stop witnessing because of the contention they receive. Sadly, many will not witness based on the contention they might receive. The unsaved desperately need us to bear witness of that one true light which can save them.
This all boils down to a love for money, a place on this earth, and high esteem in the eyes of earthly acquaintances (Luke 16:15). If such a compromised person actually senses no fear of death, it is tragic—but possible. God shows us that in these last days, strong delusion will be given to those who, “…received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.” Please see II Thessalonians 2:2-12.
Jesus Christ came to give us victory over the fear of death. It can be a little frightening if you get caught up thinking about all the ways you could die. Many of them we perceive to be unpleasant, to say the least! Brethren, these are not thoughts which we are to dwell upon. Such “fear” thoughts are Satanic in nature. God’s Word provides us with direction for our thoughts, and we will be at peace when we do so.
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Philippians 4:6-8
For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; II Corinthians 10:3-5
Many times in this article, you have heard me referencing worldliness as a key component in those who fear death. I really cannot overstate this truth! We need our love to be focused on Christ; from Him, through Him, for Him. We need our Lord’s mind. We need to care more for others than ourselves, even as He did (Philippians 2:3-8). Our first step in overcoming fear of death, needs to be a step away from the things of this world, and our love for them. Jesus has already done all the work for us in overcoming fear of death. Let us rest in Him, rejoicing in the victory that He won for us.
So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. Romans 8:8
For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. Romans 8:13
Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. James 4:4
Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. I John 2:15,16