And now, little children, abide in Him, so that when He appears, we may have confidence and not shrink away from Him in shame at His coming. 1st John 2:28 (New American Standard Bible)
Many of us grow up being taught through various methods, overt and understated, that we are worthless in the sight of man and God. I have been surprised at how many folks I’ve spoken to that feel that way. That view can bring self-loathing that taints how we respond to Christ and His love. We see ourselves as eligible to have our sins forgiven but after that we only see ourselves standing under the scrutiny of a nitpicky and judgmental God who never approves of us.
Those who abide in Christ are assured they will have complete confidence that on that day we meet Him we will be able to hold our heads up with assurance and happiness. The confidence John speaks of here in the Greek also has the meaning of a ‘bold freedom of speech.’ We can only speak boldly to someone we have confidence in.
While this means future confidence it also communicates how we can relate to God right now. The love and grace Jesus demonstrated reveals the depth and acceptance of God of His children. Communication has been opened to us by God through His Son Jesus Christ. He calls us friends (John 15:15). Friendship with God brings assurance and confidence to approach the Throne of Grace and speak directly and bravely with the King any time we choose. The King’s ear is always open and we are always welcomed to approach in sweet communion. He has great interest in what we have to say and takes the greatest pleasure when we say it in the beauty of boldness.
Ken
www.devotionstoday.blogspot.com
Many of us grow up being taught through various methods, overt and understated, that we are worthless in the sight of man and God. I have been surprised at how many folks I’ve spoken to that feel that way. That view can bring self-loathing that taints how we respond to Christ and His love. We see ourselves as eligible to have our sins forgiven but after that we only see ourselves standing under the scrutiny of a nitpicky and judgmental God who never approves of us.
Those who abide in Christ are assured they will have complete confidence that on that day we meet Him we will be able to hold our heads up with assurance and happiness. The confidence John speaks of here in the Greek also has the meaning of a ‘bold freedom of speech.’ We can only speak boldly to someone we have confidence in.
While this means future confidence it also communicates how we can relate to God right now. The love and grace Jesus demonstrated reveals the depth and acceptance of God of His children. Communication has been opened to us by God through His Son Jesus Christ. He calls us friends (John 15:15). Friendship with God brings assurance and confidence to approach the Throne of Grace and speak directly and bravely with the King any time we choose. The King’s ear is always open and we are always welcomed to approach in sweet communion. He has great interest in what we have to say and takes the greatest pleasure when we say it in the beauty of boldness.
Ken
www.devotionstoday.blogspot.com
