As we continue to dive into the book of 1 John, we jumped straight into the importance of discernment. Many people will be filled with words, however it is up to us to test claims, stories and prophecies against the truth that is the Living Word. Often times, you will see a video or hear a remark from someone in close proximity to you. Do you absent-mindedly go along with whatever claims brush your ears? I would certainly hope not, we can find miles of lies and conspiracy partial truths in the error of human teachings. It is wise to evaluate your circle of influence, those whom God has placed in your life. Never be afraid of testing their claims against what you know to be true. God wants to reveal the truth to us, His truth – through the power of disciplined discernment. But He requires that you seek it. This puts accountability on each of us. If we aren’t spending time diving deeper into the word of Christ, how will we know what to believe? Your circle is important. Be wary of those whom wear down your faith with their partial truths.
But in the same way that we are to be cautious not to believe everything we hear, we can also recognize that God was very intentional with the people that He chose to surround us with. It is our great responsibility to model Christ’s love to them. An unbeliever will certainly have doubts when your Jesus-loving self is not living out the Christ-like love that we have been called to. It isn’t easy, to love like Jesus. He is merciful and compassionate. How does that look when you interact with your spouse? Your children? Are your words and actions warm and embracing, radiating the light of your heavenly Father? Or do you speak with scorn and malice in your actions? If we have accepted Jesus Christ as our Savior, the Holy Spirit lives in us! What a standard! God is love, and with His Spirit abiding in us, we are also called to walk out the actions of love.