Scripture Union Daily Guide 22 June 2020
Topic: A Message for All Ages
Opening Prayer: Grant me depth of insight, revelation and knowledge as I meditate on this passage, O Lord.
Scripture: 1 John 2:12–17
Reflection
• Is there any command for me to obey?
• Is there any warning for me to heed?
John was writing to believers of all ages and various experiences in the faith (vv.12–14). The three categories ─ children, fathers and young men ─ could refer respectively to the newly born in Christ (sins forgiven), the more mature in the faith (have known Him who is from the beginning) and the young but vibrant in the faith (have overcome the evil one). What three things are particularly noteworthy in the young men (v.14b)?
How can these contribute to your daily victory? Notice the central message of the Apostle (vv.15–17) – “Love not the world”! The believer is warned against the cravings and desires prevalent in the world. What are these cravings? Lust of the flesh ─ sensuality ─ giving heed to the inner desires to satisfy one’s flesh; lust of the eyes ─ materialism ─ craving after material possession (1 Timothy 6:9–10) and the pride of life ─ ostentation ─ being obsessed with one’s status and achievements.
These tendencies may stare you in the face today. As Christians, we must not allow ourselves to become affected by the evil attitudes and behaviour of unbelievers among whom we live. Whatever we have here and now will soon be gone. For further study: Compare and contrast Eve’s and Achan’s failure (Genesis 3:6; Josh. 7:21) with Jesus’s success (Luke 4:1–13) when each was tested in the three areas of lust. See also the warnings in Matthew 16:26; Colossians. 3:2 and James 4:4.
Practice/Word Application
• Meditation: “If you love me, you will keep my commandment”.
Prayer Points
• I need your grace and strength, dear Lord, to overcome the world and its lust.
• Thank God for the effect of witnessing in converting sinners to faith in Christ Jesus; bless His name for your salvation.
• Offer a prayer of faith in line with Genesis 39:2a
Read the Bible in one Year
Jer. 48–49; Phil. 1
Scripture Union Daily Guide 22 June 2020 – Scripture Union is an international, inter-denominational, evangelical Christian organization. It was founded in 1867, and works in partnership with individuals and churches across the world. The organization’s stated aim is to use the Bible to inspire children, young people and adults to know God.