According to the standards of
modern religious fundamentalists (Pharisees), worldliness and godliness are
things determined by what a person wears, where he goes, what he eats or
drinks, etc. Their rule is, "Touch not, taste not, handle not". These
commandments and doctrines of men are satisfying to the flesh, and they make a
show of humility. But Paul calls this "will worship" (Col. 2:23) and
"the doctrines of devils" (I Tim. 4:1). And he warns us to shun these
things.
Worldliness is simply an undue attachment to this
world. It is living for this world, its riches, its honor, its joys, and its
cares. And it is living by the principles of this world: greed, covetousness,
deceit, and lasciviousness. And true godliness is simply living for God. It is
living as unto the Lord, for his honor and glory. It is living by love and
faith toward God as he is revealed in Christ. And it is living in submission to
the Lord our God.
Are you a worldly person, one who lives for this
world? If so, you will surely perish with this world. Are you a godly person,
one who lives by the grace of God and for the glory of God? If so, you will
live for all eternity in the bliss of Christ's heavenly kingdom.