SCRIPTURE: 1 John 2:7-29
OBSERVATION:
John writes this urgent appeal for Christ-followers to persevere in love (the old/new command) because this is the evidence that they remain in Him.
Seems to be writing to all generations of believers: adults (fathers), young adults (young men) and children.
What makes the old command (as revealed in the Law of Moses) new is that it is now revealed to us in Jesus and worked out in us by the Spirit – ”its truth is seen in him and you”.
The world is enticing and enemies (anti-christs) will arise in the community, but Jesus and His anointing (Holy Spirit in us) will teach and enable us to shine with His love, if we remain in Him.
APPLICATION:
Whatever the situation, in all times and places, the basic command of Jesus to love others still applies, so it also applies here for me! This is what it means to be a Christ-follower, to love as Jesus loved!
I need to ”remain in” Jesus (ie stay close to, talk with) paying attention to how He lived, loved, served, if I’m going to follow His example. Though it will be hard, His Spirit is at work in me, teaching and enabling me.
Have I been distracted by the world (car, money, house, electronic toys, etc) so that I do not spend myself in loving others? Have I been discouraged by opponents and challenges so that I have withdrawn from loving others?
PRAYER:
Lord, help me to see the dangers that threaten to weaken my love. Help me to keep You at the center of my day to day living, to follow the prompting of Your Spirit in my heart, and to aim to demonstrate Your love to all those around me. Amen.
When I am a Light walker, my actions must also show that in my relationships to those around me. The Gospel in one word is love. Open my eyes Lord that I may always see what You want me to see.
John writes to all Light walkers – children, fathers, young men – so they may not be inflicted with self blindness. The love of Christ needs to be the driving force of daily life and not the pleasures of this world. We know the Truth and that Truth must remain in us. I must be true to that Word. He must be my driving force. I must remain in Him and not be a counterfeit. I need to do good at all times, showing that I have been born of God. Help me Lord also on this day as with every day continually say and live in such a way that Today God Is First in all I do and say.
Jesus, all for Jesus,
All I am and have and ever hope to be.
Jesus, all for Jesus,
All I am and have and ever hope to be.
All of my ambitions, hopes and plans
I surrender these into Your hands.
All of my ambitions, hopes and plans
I surrender these into Your hands.