Changed by His Love
1 John 5:19: We know that we are of God, and the whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one.
John was seeking in these summarizing statements to reinforce the readers’ consciousness that they are distinct from the satanically controlled world system and basically free from its power. They need not listen to the worldly ideas advanced by the antichrists. Nor need they succumb to worldly desires. “Little children, let no one deceive you. He who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous. He who sins is of the devil, for the devil has sinned from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.” (1 John 3:7–8). 1
Loving Him
Read the verses below. Are you living graciously close to God, or dangerously close to the devil?
Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever. 1 John 2:15–17
Loving Others
May the power of the Holy Spirit sway you from the influences of the world.
Make Me Like You
Lord, thank You for the security of living under the powerful influence of Your Holy Spirit.
1. Walvoord, J. F., & Zuck, R. B., Dallas Theological Seminary. (1985). The Bible Knowledge Commentary.
