PART 2 OF 3
Continuing from Part 1, John now begins to speak of love and hatred for fellow believers. If we truly know God is within us, we keep His commands. If we do not keep His commands, the truth is not in us.
Our love for God is complete if we will just obey His Word. That can be a hard thing to do at times. The times I’ve disobeyed His Word have been a disgrace, truly, but haven’t we all disobeyed His commands at some point?
I know that each of us can learn and obey even though it may not be easy. We must live as Jesus did, full of love for one another. It is only then that we know we live in Him, carrying out His Word. Obeying His Word comes as living like Jesus did.
“Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister is still in the darkness.” (2:9)
We live in the light when we love one another and live according to God’s will. When we hate, we do not know where we are going because the darkness blinds us spiritually. It can be hard to love others who have hurt us or when they don’t love us back. Just know that you are still doing the right thing by loving and not hating.
That’s a good start for us to learn how to forgive as well. Forgive just as Jesus has forgiven you. There will be nothing to make us stumble if we follow His command on love. Love is a huge thing with God. He wants us to love EVERYONE.
“The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the Will of God lives forever.” (2:17)
I want to be fulfilled with the Word of God so I can do the Will of God and live forever. John will continue with the warnings against denying Christ. Haven’t we heard before; no truth comes from a lie? As all people have fallen short of the Glory of God, some deny Christ altogether.
We are instructed to do the Will of God. This means to do as it is written and be righteous and uphold God’s covenant. Simply, anything that God asks from us, we do. It really is an important instruction. Just as simple as the decision is for some to obey Christ, it can be a more difficult decision for others.
I am simply providing direction and guidance to anyone that reads according to what the Bible says. I pray for your direction too! For you, my friend, this is an eternal decision and only one that you can make. God never promised us an easy life, but He promises us salvation if we come to Him and live according to His Word.
Thirty-Seven & Rooted 