Summary: In today's passage, John encourages us to guard against sinning, but reminds us that when we do, we have an advocate, Jesus Christ. But the most important part of being a Christian is not just avoiding the wrong things, but doing the right things. Loving our brothers and sisters in Christ is how we keep in fellowship with God and is the essence of obeying God's commands.
Focus Verse: 5 But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him:
Reflection:
As I grow older and take on more responsibilities it’s hard to be confident that I am always doing right by everyone. Without realizing it I may be a liar. I can’t avoid sin even in a quick interaction because of the way insincerity or arrogance can creep into me. Trying to be sinless leads me to despair. This is why I need God and love my time with God. When I spend time with a particular passage of scripture, I can focus on a specific instruction God is giving to me. When I think about all that I do wrong, I feel like I'm digging a hole into my darkness and feel weak and hopeless. But when I spend time with God, and read a short text, I can feel God's love, and can accept God's invitation to do one thing right. That's when I feel God opening my eyes and leading me into the light.
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for being my advocate for my sins even though I am not worthy. I am still weak & have struggles every single day. Help me to see Jesus as my example and love all my brothers & sisters. Give me strength and wisdom so that my love for you will always be truly complete. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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