For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. Again, a contrast is made between the world and God. The Christian is to turn his back to the lusts and pride of the world, since they are not of God. Rather, he is to turn to God, loving Him and doing His will. This turning is important because it carries the promise that those who do the will of God will abide forever.
Christians often face situations where no direct word speaks to an issue.
This does not mean Christians have nothing to guide them, because they always have the principle of love, i.e., love not the world, etc. The Spirit contends with the flesh and motivates Christians not to do the works of the flesh. Christians have no part in these activities. Godly brethren abstain from the works of the flesh and walk by the Spirit. Christians also must remember that church leaders and other brethren can help them to understand scriptural principles and therefore know what is right for everyday situations.