Read 1 John 3.
The Holy Spirit guided John to write an overarching principle by which followers of Jesus are to live. Mark it in your Bible. Memorize it. Practice it.
"Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth." (v.18)
Demonstrating genuine love for other believers is a proof of a genuine faith. We use our time and resources, being attentive to the needs of others and seeking to meet those needs. We use our words to encourage and tell others of our appreciation of them. In addition to helping someone else, there are tremendous personal benefits for putting that verse into practice.
1. We have assurance of the Truth. (v.19a)
The Scriptures teach us the absolute truth, right from wrong, and the difference between the philosophies of this world versus faith in Christ. We can know for sure of God's forgiveness, life after death, escape from hell, and our home in heaven.
2. We have assurance of a clear Conscience. (vv.19b-21)
Freedom from guilt comes as a result of faith in the blood of Jesus Christ to forgive and cleanse us (1:9).
3. We have assurance of answered Prayer. (v.22)
This verse stipulates a qualification: "because we keep his commandments and do what pleases him." Obedience produces confidence in our conversations with God.
4. We have assurance of fellowship with God. (vv.23-24)
When we seek to obey the Lord all the time, we find ourselves "abiding", or living, moment by moment with a sense of God's presence. As we enjoy this personal relationship, the Holy Spirit keeps on encouraging us.
Loving other believers requires us to be in a committed group of other believers in Jesus. As we gather each week to worship the Lord, our attention is likewise to be on each other. "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:24-25)
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