Escape from the "corruption that is in the world through lust" (Greek, epithumia,vehement desire) is possible. It's possible to go from "Being hated, and hating one another" to a life that is filled with all good things.
The good news is that it does not take years of discipline or self-denial. It is a gift from God, and it is simply acquired. However, you must want it. The LORD said to Jeremiah: "They will seek for me, and find me, when they search with all their heart;" so it is not something to pursue halfheartedly. Many folks do want the life that God offers, but they go about it as if they had to do something for it--make themselves good enough for God, so to speak. Apart from the fact that you cannot do that, it's also true that this would be an unending process. When would you know if you had finished, and NOW you were good enough?
The way the Bible teaches that we get the life from God, the good life, the life of blessing, is very simple:
"Confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead."
And,
"Whoever will call upon the name of the Lord shall be delivered..."
The above two things are not "two different ways," but two descriptions of the same way to get to God, and receive His wonderful gifts.
If you want the gift of life, then believe in God's Son.
If you want the gift of life, then ask for it. Ask with all your heart.
This is not a confusing, difficult formula meant to immerse you in years of study and work. It's a path anyone can take, a faith anyone can adopt, a life YOU can receive right now.
I could multiply Bible verses, and offer you all kinds of other information, but if this is enough, why do that? You can try this out pretty easily. Ask God for the life He gives. Call on Him. See what happens.
And then tell me. I'd like to know.
