Since the 1950s, several countries have operated permanent research stations in Antarctica. The continent’s uncommon elements regularly lead to unique scientific studies and advancements. Yet Antarctica’s extreme climate also creates exceptional challenges. Over the years, many tons of equipment and even entire research stations have been lost or destroyed due to snow, ice, and frigid temperatures. As one scientist observed, “It’s a remorseless environment. If you’ve made any mistakes in your preparation, it will find them out.”

There is a valuable application here for the Christian. Just as Antarctica is a challenging environment for science, so the world is spiritually ruthless for the believer. As a framework for life, the world system is diametrically opposed to God. It is characterized by self-centered desires for attention and satisfaction. Its cares are like thorns which choke out the Word of God. Its prince is the devil himself. In all these aspects, the world is an alien environment for our souls; and if we misunderstand this reality, we will be taken by surprise. As the scientist said of Antarctica, so it can be said of the Christian: If we have made any mistakes in our preparation, the world will find them.

What then would prepare the believer to live in such an environment? First, the Lord Jesus has overcome the world, and He gives us His peace in the midst of the world’s antagonism (Jn. 14:27; 16:33). Second, we overcome the world by the victory of our faith in Jesus, the Son of God (1 Jn. 5:4–5). And third, rather than seeking identity and status in the world, we rest in the love of the Father who perfectly provides all we need (1 Jn. 2:15–17).