Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence before God. – 1 John 3:21
Kobe Bryant once said, “Winning takes precedence over all. There’s no gray area. No almosts.”
And he seemed to live his short life with that in mind. Playing for 20 years with the LA Lakers, he was a star in the professional basketball game.
With God there is also no gray area. Hating what He hates and loving what He loves puts you in the right place in the court of life. Today’s verse says that even your heart can condemn you because of wrongs you know you have committed…and God sees even more; He will be the final Judge and executioner. But, and be thankful for the “but,” if you believe in His Word, confessing your sins and seeking to be obedient to His commandments, you will not be condemned. Instead you can be confident as you come boldly before God, assured of His welcoming arms because of the sacrifice made by Christ, the Savior.
The fruit of your faith includes loving what God loves, seeking to be obedient to His statutes, and being a light in the midst of a dark world as you show love to those around you. The Savior lives within you, and the power of the Holy Spirit will drive away any doubt and fear that could invade your heart. You can live with the calm confidence of faith in a God who is loving and just.
With this assurance, petition the Lord for those who have not seen His light. Intercede for the leaders in this nation, that they will not be condemned but will follow the Lord’s commands and do what is right in His sight.
Today’s Verse: 1 John 3:21
Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence before God;
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Psalm 119:27, 33-40
27 Make me understand the way of your precepts,
and I will meditate on your wondrous works.
33 Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes;
and I will keep it to the end.
34 Give me understanding, that I may keep your law
and observe it with my whole heart.
35 Lead me in the path of your commandments,
for I delight in it.
36 Incline my heart to your testimonies,
and not to selfish gain!
37 Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things;
and give me life in your ways.
38 Confirm to your servant your promise,
that you may be feared.
39 Turn away the reproach that I dread,
for your rules are good.
40 Behold, I long for your precepts;
in your righteousness give me life!
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
