1 John 3:1-10; Psalm 18:30-32, 46

1 John 3:1-10
We are God's children, and He loves us. This thought should help our self-esteem! We are His beloved children now, and this relationship is forever.

• What we are:  God's beloved children v. 1
• What we are becoming: more like Christ. When Christ appears, "we will be like him for we will see him as he really is. And all who have this eager expectation will keep themselves pure, just as he is pure." vv. 2-3  This is an ongoing process which won't be complete until we see Christ face to face. 

As we look at vv. 4-10 we need to make a distinction between committing a sin and continuing to sin. Every believe will sometimes commit sins. When we do, we confess it (agree with God), repent (turn away from it), and find forgiveness from God. We do not cherish is, make provision for it, excuse it, or continue to practice it. This shows that we are God's children. A person who keeps on sinning, shows that he or she belongs to the devil, who has been sinning since the beginning. v. 8

"Those who have been born into God's family do not make a practice of sinning, because God's life is in them. So they can't keep on sinning, because they are children of God. So now we can tell who are children of God and who are children of the devil. Anyone who does not live righteously and does not love other believers does not belong to God." vv. 9-10

This passage is intended to give us assurance of our salvation, not to discourage us when we may have areas of temptations or struggle. Our present victories are often incomplete. Here are suggestions to overcome temptation and sin.

• Stay in the Word!
• Depend on the Holy Spirit.
• Avoid tempting situations.
• Fellowship with God's people.
• Pray and seek others' prayers.

Psalm 18:30-32, 46  Here are some thoughts for meditation.

"God's way is perfect. All the Lord's promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection. For who is God except the Lord? Who but our God is a solid rock? God arms me with strength, and he makes my way perfect....The Lord lives! Praise to my Rock! May the God of my salvation be exalted!"