1 John

DEAR GOD: You Are My Advocate & Savior~

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“My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous,”

1 John 2:1

As we journey through life, we often encounter moments of weakness and temptation. The verse from 1 John 2:1, “My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous,” offers us profound comfort and guidance. This message is a heartfelt reflection on this scripture, meant to encourage and uplift you in your walk with the Lord.

Understanding the Verse

John addresses us as “little children,” a term of endearment that signifies his deep care and concern for our spiritual well-being. He writes to remind us of the importance of striving to live a sinless life. However, he acknowledges our human frailty and reassures us that when we do falter, we have an advocate in Jesus Christ.

Moral Thoughts

This verse calls us to a higher standard of living, one that seeks to avoid sin. It reminds us that our actions matter and that we should strive to reflect Christ in all we do. Yet, it also offers hope and reassurance. Jesus, our advocate, stands before the Father on our behalf, interceding for us. His righteousness covers our imperfections, allowing us to approach God with confidence.

Reflective Questions

  1. In what areas of my life am I most susceptible to sin, and how can I seek God’s strength to overcome these temptations?
  2. How does knowing that Jesus is my advocate change the way I approach my relationship with God?
  3. What steps can I take to live a life that more closely reflects the teachings of Christ?

Supporting Scriptures

  • Romans 8:34: “Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.”
  • Hebrews 7:25: “Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.”
  • 1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Closing Prayer

“Heavenly Father, we come before You with humble hearts, grateful for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Thank You for His sacrifice and for His role as our advocate. Help us to live lives that honor You, striving to avoid sin and to reflect Your love in all we do. When we fall short, remind us of Your grace and forgiveness. Strengthen our faith and guide us in our daily walk with You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Scripture to Ponder for the Day

Psalm 103:12: “As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.”

May the Word of our Father, and His everlasting promises bring you peace and encouragement as you continue to grow in your faith. Remember, we are all on this journey together, supported by the love and grace of our Savior. In Christ Love and light – God bless you~

Psalm 23 Photograph by Samuel Epperly

 

 

DEAR GOD: Greater Are You Than All Of The Universe~

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Greater is He who is within me than the one who is in the world. 1 John ...

 

Greater is He That is in You

In the epistle of 1 John, the apostle John addresses the faithful with words of encouragement and affirmation. Among the many profound truths he shares, one stands out as a beacon of hope: “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world” (1 John 4:4 KJV). This statement is not merely a comforting thought; it is a declaration of victory, a testament to the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer.

The Indwelling Presence

The presence of God within us is a fundamental truth of the Christian faith. The Holy Spirit, who is God Himself, takes residence in our hearts when we believe in Jesus Christ. “And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us” (1 John 3:24 KJV). This indwelling is not a passive occurrence but an active engagement of God in our lives, guiding, teaching, and empowering us to live out our faith.

The Victory Over the World

The world, as John refers to it, is a system of values and beliefs that is often at odds with God’s truth. It is ruled by “the prince of the power of the air” (Ephesians 2:2 KJV), who seeks to lead us astray. However, the one who is in us—God Himself—is greater than any force or influence the world can muster. Our victory is not in our strength but in His power. “For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith” (1 John 5:4 KJV).

Living Out the Greater One

How, then, shall we live in light of this truth? We are called to abide in Him, to walk just as Jesus walked. “He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked” (1 John 2:6 KJV). Our daily lives should reflect the character and love of Christ, demonstrating to the world the transformative power of His presence within us.

Questions for Reflection

  • How does the truth that “greater is He that is in you” impact your daily life?
  • In what ways can you demonstrate the love and power of Christ to those around you?
  • What steps can you take to deepen your relationship with the indwelling presence of God?

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Holy Spirit, who resides in our hearts. We rejoice in the truth that You are greater than anything we face in this world. Help us to live out this victory daily, walking in faith and love. May our lives be a testament to Your power and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

I hope this post will bring individuals to reflect on the assurance provided by the knowledge that God’s Presence within us is mightier than any worldly influence. And that it encourages believers to live out their faith with confidence and to continually seek a deeper fellowship with God, according to His will and His Word…

DEAR GOD: My Life Here Renewed Daily By You There~

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1 John 5:13: I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.

I have always known the existence of God, since a little child. I was fortunate to be raised in a Christian environment, with church going parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles. In fact, Sunday was a fine time to worship, meet and greet…and have others over for family dinners. It was special from sunrise to sunset. The foundation for my life was built upon the Rock, with my parents setting a fine example.

Today, as a senior citizen I look back and realize that God has ALWAYS been with me, through thick and thin. Through rough times and good times. And all the in between times.

As Christians we recognize God’s Word and surrender to His commandments and try to stay within the parameters of His Wishes. Being human, we sometimes fall short, and of course we repent and with contrite hearts we are forgiven.

We learn things from our falls, and we gain insight and wisdom because of them. I think that’s what defines humanity. Our ability to gain strength and depth with each transgression or tribulation.

I don’t know about anyone else, but being Bible savvy doesn’t mean I don’t learn something new each time I pick it up and read. There is a new thought or understanding and room for growth every time.

Living is living while here on earth, but when we are called home, that will be ETERNAL LIFE and all the rewards that come from that. I live daily because of Him living “there.”  And one day, I look forward to my future eternal home.

Until such time, I live for Him and Him alone.

“Father, God, thank You for the Word and Your guidance yesterday, today, tomorrow and all the days of my life here on earth, I embrace You and Your promises of the rewards to come, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”