DEVOTION – DAY 350

1 Corinthians 3:18-19a “The World’s Values Are Deceptive”

1 Corinthians 3:18-19a “Do not deceive yourselves. If any of you think you are wise by the standards of this age, you should become “fools” so that you may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight.”

Steve Jobs was the Chairman and ex-CEO of Apple Computers. He was considered an outstanding business entrepreneur and was very wealthy. He was one of the founders of Apple Computers. However, what was not commonly known was that he was adopted at birth, by a lower income couple who were childless. He spent much of his life following the wisdom of the world. He toyed with transcendental meditation and Zen Buddhism. He believed that technology would be his key to unlocking wealth and success. But at the height of his fame and success, he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. With his vast wealth at his disposal, he had access to the best treatment available. He again sought wisdom and searched the Internet for cutting age cures. He resorted to alternative treatments until they proved unsuccessful. In the end, he had surgery to have the tumor removed. But it was too late. The cancer had spread. He continued to battle his illness following the advice of his doctors. As he approached his death, he came to the realization that all his wealth could not save him. He could not take his wealth and fame with him. This caused him to reflect upon what the true meaning of life was. Sadly, he passed away without finding an answer. He was an example of someone who was deceived by the wise standards of the world. The world’s wisdom exhorts people to seek wealth, success and fame because that is the way to happiness.

But the Bible tells us in verses like 1 Cor.3:18-19a that the world’s values, standards and teachings are deceiving and foolish. Money, fame and fortune do not necessarily guarantee happiness, good health, and true friendship. The Bible tells us that true joy, peace and contentment comes from a deep and lasting relationship with the Living God. The wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight.

Let us pray: Heavenly Father, It is so easy to be lured by the ways and wisdoms of this world. We pray for strength and wisdom that comes from you to help us to be discerning. Help us to always seek your ways, and not the ways and wisdom of this world. We pray this in the great name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Questions

  1. What are some common worldly wisdom and values that many people follow? How are they misleading? Share and discuss.
  2. How have you been disappointed by following the ways of the world in the past? Share.
  3. Why are people deceived by worldly wisdom and values? Discuss.
  4. What steps can you take to ensure that you do not fall for worldly wisdoms and values?