Abiding in God's Love: A Devotional on 1 John 2:28-4:21
December 20
Scripture: 1 John 2:28-4:21 (NIV)
In 1 John 2:28-4:21, the apostle John continues to address believers, emphasizing the importance of abiding in God's love, discerning the spirits, and living lives characterized by love for one another. He encourages believers to remain faithful to the truth of the gospel and to demonstrate their love for God by loving others.
John begins by urging believers to abide in Christ, so that when He appears, they may have confidence and not shrink back in shame. He emphasizes the importance of living in obedience to God's commandments and walking in the same manner as Christ walked. John warns against false teachers and spirits that deny Jesus as the Christ, encouraging believers to test the spirits and discern the truth from falsehood.
An important verse in this passage is 1 John 4:7-8:
"Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love."
Here, John highlights the central importance of love in the Christian life. He emphasizes that true love originates from God and that those who are born of God will demonstrate love towards others. This verse encapsulates the essence of God's character as love and underscores the transformative power of His love in the lives of believers.
This verse holds profound relevance for us today. In a world characterized by division, hatred, and hostility, the call to love one another stands as a powerful testament to the transformative power of the gospel.
As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect God's love in all our interactions, demonstrating compassion, kindness, and forgiveness towards others. Our love for one another serves as a tangible expression of our relationship with God and bears witness to His redemptive work in our lives.
As we reflect on 1 John 2:28-4:21, let us consider how this passage applies to our lives today. Let us abide in God's love, walking in obedience to His commandments and demonstrating His love towards others. Let us be discerning in testing the spirits and holding fast to the truth of the gospel. And let us pray earnestly for the Holy Spirit's guidance and empowerment to love as God loves.
Prayer:
We thank You for Your boundless love that transforms our hearts and lives.
Help us to love one another as You have loved us, demonstrating compassion, kindness, and forgiveness towards all.
Give us discernment to test the spirits and hold fast to the truth of Your Word. May Your love shine through us, drawing others into relationship with You.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
