Listen

Dear friends, now we are God’s children, and it hasn’t yet appeared what we will be. We know that when he appears we will be like him because we’ll see him as he is. And all who have this hope in him purify themselves even as he is pure. Every person who practices sin commits an act of rebellion, and sin is rebellion. You know that he appeared to take away sins, and there is no sin in him. Every person who remains in relationship to him does not sin. Any person who sins has not seen him or known him.

Little children, make sure no one deceives you. The person who practices righteousness is righteous, in the same way that Jesus is righteous.

1 John 3:2-7

Think

Today’s passage explores what a life of faith involves. John suggests that being a child of God is not just something for the future. It is what we can be today. Following God is part of building a life that is righteous now and into the future. Because of that, our relationship with God will help us make right choices and decisions about our lives.

Our passage for today talks about practicing righteousness. To practice is to do something over and over again. As we keep doing the right thing, seeking to make good choices, we keep learning how to follow God. Practicing righteousness shapes our life into looking more like Jesus’. As we follow Jesus’ example, our lives will also reflect God’s love to the world. John reminds us that following Jesus will result in a better life, both now and into the future.

Paris Ball

Question to Ponder:

Which verse in today’s passage gives you comfort and which part is a challenge?

Pray

Dear Jesus, be with me today as I try to follow you as best I can. I do intend for my life to be a reflection of your desires in this world, and I believe that this pleases you. Stay with me today and help me remember you in all that I encounter.

Amen.

Go

May God’s comfort and peace surround, enfold, and protect you

Remaining with you from this day and forevermore.

Amen.