Toni Smothers
Scripture Reading: 1 John 1:3-10
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Scripture Quote: “My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father--Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.” 1 John 2:1 -2 (NIV)
When God needs to illuminate some aspect of human nature apart from Himself, He'll show it to us in ourselves - Once God does that, we know there is no immoral criminal who is anywhere near as bad as we know ourselves to be. While the Word and God's Holy Spirit promise to enlighten us with truth, He doesn't say it will always be pleasant. Helping us to face the rough truth about ourselves is one way God helps us to grow. He will always offer to change us, usually through some difficult act of obedience.
Jesus has prepared a place in heaven and offers Believers abundant life now, even though we so often fail to live up to His example. We need to stay the course, not give up on ourselves, and believe in His transforming power. When we turn from Him and seek our own will, we inevitably find discontentment and disappointment. Jesus is the only way to peace and joy. His power
Today’s meditation: Rest in the knowledge that we belong to Jesus.
Memory Verse: “They will no longer defile themselves with their idols and vile images or with any of their offenses, for I will save them from all their sinful backsliding, and I will cleanse them. They will be my people, and I will be their God.” Ezekiel 37:23 (NIV)