Dwight L. Moody once said: “Christians live in the world, but should not be filled with it. A ship lives in the water, but if the water gets into the ship, she sinks to the bottom. So, Christians may live in the world, but if the world gets into them, they sink.”
That image is unforgettable. A ship is built for the water. It’s made to float, to travel, to carry people and goods across seas. But the moment the water it was designed to move through begins to flood inside, disaster strikes.
The same is true for believers. Christians live in the world but should not be filled with it.
In the World, But Not of the World
Jesus prayed this powerful prayer for His disciples:
“They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth” (John 17:16–17, KJV).
We are called to live here—to work, love, serve, and shine the light of Christ in the world. But we are not called to blend in with the world’s values, attitudes, or sinful ways.
A ship belongs in the water. A Christian belongs in the world. But neither was made to be consumed by it.
The Danger of a World-Filled Life
When Christians allow the world to seep into their hearts, it shows:
- Compromised convictions—choosing convenience over obedience.
- Polluted priorities—chasing money, fame, or comfort instead of God’s kingdom.
- Hidden light—living in fear of standing out as different.
John warns us plainly: “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” (1 John 2:15, KJV).
How to Stay Afloat
So, how do we live in the world without being filled with it?
- Anchor yourself in Scripture. God’s Word is truth that keeps us steady.
- Guard your heart. What you consume—music, media, company—shapes you.
- Stay in prayer. Prayer keeps the “water of the world” from filling your soul.
- Live with eternity in mind. Remember, this world is temporary, but your soul is forever.
Paul reminds us: “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2, KJV).
A Truth Worth Living
Friend, the ship was built to sail—not sink. And you were built to live for Christ—not be drowned by the world.
Christians live in the world but should not be filled with it. Let the Word of God, the Spirit of God, and the presence of God be your guard. Because when Christ fills your heart, the world has no room to get in.
“Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid” (Matthew 5:14, KJV).
Shine. Sail strong. Stay afloat.
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