Example from 1 John

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

1 John 4:4

The book of 1 John, nestled among the New Testament epistles, presents practical guidance for believers in their daily walk. In a world filled with darkness and deceit, this passage from 1 John 4:4 offers a powerful reminder of our identity and the victorious power we possess as children of God. By recognizing the supremacy of Christ within us, we can overcome the challenges and attacks of the enemy, shining the light of truth in a world desperately in need of hope.

For further insight on this scripture, listen to this verses Spiritual Kick Off episode here.

Context and Spiritual Warfare

Written by the apostle John, 1 John addresses the presence of false spirits and the importance of discerning the truth. In today’s society, the darkness seems to be intensifying, infiltrating various aspects of life. Attacks on the biblical family model, marriage, parenting, work, finances, and health are increasingly prevalent. In the face of such opposition, it can be overwhelming to witness the deterioration of values and the relentless assault on godly principles.

Tapping into the Power Within

However, as followers of Christ, we are not left defenseless. John reminds us that we are from God, uniquely created in His image. We must reject the lies of the enemy that try to undermine our worth and purpose. Every heroic tale portrays a battle between good and evil, and the Bible reveals the ultimate truth that we will face persecution, trials, and temptations in this world. Yet, we can draw strength from knowing that these challenges do not originate from God.

The Fiery Arrows and the Armor of God

The evil one seeks to harm and hinder us with his flaming arrows of temptation. These arrows take the form of the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. At times, they may bombard us relentlessly, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and weary. Nevertheless, we have been equipped with the armor of God, which enables us to extinguish every fiery arrow. This armor includes the truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, the Word of God, and prayer.

Accessing the Power of Salvation

As believers, we possess something far greater than what the world can offer—the gift of salvation. By surrendering to the lordship of Jesus, we gain access to the power of the Holy Spirit, who dwells within us. This divine presence empowers us to stand firm in the face of adversity, reminding us that the One inside us is greater than the one in the world.

Embracing Community and Brotherhood

While our victory is assured in Christ, there will still be challenging days. In those moments, we need the support of fellow believers who can remind us of the importance of community and brotherhood. Surrounding ourselves with like-minded individuals helps us stay focused on our identity and purpose, providing encouragement and strength in times of difficulty.

In conclusion, 1 John 4:4 encourages us to tap into the power that resides within us as children of God. By recognizing our identity and embracing the truth that the One inside us is greater than the forces of the world, we can navigate the challenges we face. Armed with the armor of God, supported by a community of believers, and led by the Holy Spirit, we can unleash the Lion Within us. Let us stand firm in our faith, boldly proclaiming the truth, and bringing light to the darkness around us.