Those who use the things of the world should not become attached to them. For this world as we know it will soon pass away.
1 Corinthians 7:31 NLT
This world has been around for a very long time. And it gives every indication that it will continue for much longer. So, Paul’s words about the world soon passing away might seem strange.
Paul, and the other New Testament authors, lived in expectation of the imminent return of Christ and the end of this age. That Jesus has not returned in nearly 2,000 years does not negate what he says here, though. Christ is returning. And this world, as we know it now, will pass away.
I do not know when that will be. It could be before I finish writing this. Or it could continue long into the future. But one thing I do know is that my time on Earth, regardless of how long it lasts, is short and will soon come to an end.
So, what Paul says here applies to me regardless of how much longer this world continues to exist. The things of this world are temporary. My home, bank account, and other possessions will all be left behind. They could even be gone before I am.
Hold loosely to the things of this world. Use them in our Lord’s service. But do not become attached to the things of this world or put your hope in them. They are all temporary and will not last.
Instead, put your faith in the Lord and his provision for you. Hold tightly to “the hope stored up for you in heaven” (Col. 1:5). And fix your “eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (2 Cor. 4:18).
