Be in the world, but not of the world.

As much as we hear this phrase and think it’s Scripture, it isn’t.  It expresses the idea of how we are to be, but this isn’t Scripture specifically.

John 17 talks mostly about the phrase “in the world.” But doesn’t say not to be of the world. We need to look at other Scriptures to make this phrase complete. Scripture like the first commandment, have no other gods beside our Father in heaven. Exodus 20:3.  Then there is, “you can’t have two masters….you can’t serve both God and money.” Matthew 6:24.

Just for clarification, Groom capitalized means Jesus, because now I’m in a position to represent Him to my bride.  To love her as Jesus loves His Church.

This sounds immensely huge, but it is really quite simple.  Simple does not mean easy, however.

Jesus was a servant leader.  He lead by sacrifice.  He wasn’t a push over. He spoke what He heard His Father speak and did what He saw His Father do. As a result, this is how I am supposed to function in my marriage. Speak what I hear Jesus speak and do what I see Jesus do.

This should be done through prayer, study of Scripture, and wise counsel, which are areas I need to improve upon. 

As I look at the people around me, I wonder where the majority of their gaze is?  Are they looking horizontally or vertically?

Am I looking horizontally or vertically?

One is looking to the world and people, the other to Jesus. 

As my bride’s groom, I must look to the Groom of creation for my help and direction, all else leads to trouble. Speaking from experience.