In this short work, Chalmers exposits 1 John 2:15, “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” He makes the wise point that we all fall in this category of loving the world, and our hearts will not displace that love unless a new, greater love takes its place. It’s the same concept seen in Ephesians 4 where Paul says to put off the old man and put on the new (Eph. 4:22-24). Though short, this is both a comforting and a convicting read.

(P.S.—After reading this book, make sure to listen to Andrew Peterson’s song “The Power of a Great Affection.” These two are PERFECT together.)

This has had a MASSIVE impact on my understanding and my prayers.

Main points: 1) our hearts were made to desire and they always will; 2) love & desire for the world will always leave us wanting; 3) merely seeing the vanity, worthlessness, and futility of these things is not enough to expunge our desires; 4) something greater must be presented to our hearts & our minds; 5) this greater affection is the only thing that can rightfully & effectively replace our love for the world.

This is a 30-page sermon chapbook from the 1800s, so what that should tell you is it's short enough to be read in one sitting but dense enough to need time & mental commitment. So so so so worth it.

Short but significant.

A great understanding of the human heart and the power of the Gospel to transform it. Highly recommended read and well worth the time.