One Trait at a Time: The Power to Become Like Christ
Wisdom Scripture
Daniel 1:20 (NIV)
“In every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king questioned them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters in his whole kingdom.”
Wisdom Quote
Wisdom is the quality of discerning what is true, what is ethically right, and what should be done in different situations.[1]
Insights: Watch Out for the World’s Lies
Peter, one of Jesus’ closest disciples, swore he would never deny Him—but then he did, three times. Doesn’t that sound familiar? You promised yourself you wouldn’t do “it” again… and then you did. Now you feel frustrated, disappointed, maybe even embarrassed. I know that feeling all too well.
What makes lasting change so difficult?
A simple answer might be laziness, apathy, or weakness. But there are larger forces at work—forces that actively oppose your growth. You are up against three powerful enemies. If you want to experience lasting change, you must stay alert to each of them. They will resist your effort to grow in even one area of your life.
Enemy #1: Watch Out for the World’s (Subtle) Enticements
In the New Testament, the term “world” often refers to forces within human culture that are opposed to God. Today, we use the word “worldly” to describe attitudes and behaviors that are materialistic, self-focused, or ungodly.
Every day, you are bombarded with subtle messages—through media, advertising, and culture—that pull you away from God. These messages encourage you to spend more, chase pleasure, and prioritize yourself. And they don’t stop. The pressure is constant.
Be alert to the world’s subtle lies:
“If it feels good, do it.”
“You only live once—go for it.”
“Buy this [truck, dress, cruise], and you’ll be happy.”
Pay attention to the cultural expectation that you should always be happy—and that you should have what others have.
The Bible reveals what’s behind these messages:
“For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.” —1 John 2:16
The world pulls you toward immorality, pride, and greed. It stirs envy and comparison, making you crave what you don’t have—or what someone else has. It tempts you to seek approval and to win at all costs.
But these desires do not come from God.
As you resist them, you can stay focused on what truly matters—your spiritual growth.
Be vigilant. Guard your heart from being “polluted by the world.” —James 1:27
[1] Nettelhorst, R. P. “Wisdom.” In Lexham Theological Wordbook, edited by Douglas Mangum et al., 2014.Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it.
