Read 1 John 4:17-21 in your personal Bible or at the link provided.
Review
1. How can we approach God on the day of judgment?
2. Why can we approach Him this way?
3. What is a defining characteristic of perfect love?
Reflect
John brings chapter four to a close by reminding us that we will all face God on judgment day. This is a day when we will stand before Him to give an account of our lives. It’s a day that can cause fear, but according to John, if we’ve given our lives to Jesus as Savior and Lord, it’s a day we can approach with confidence. Why? Because God’s righteousness covers us, and His love drives out fear.
We can have confidence on the day of judgment because we’ve lived like Jesus here in this world. We’ve acknowledged Jesus as God. We’ve lived in step with the Holy Spirit, letting His truth override the spirit of deception. We’ve reflected God’s love in our interactions with others. And His love has driven out our fear.
What is your gut-level response when you think of judgment day? Is there a step you still need to take to acknowledge Jesus as God? What about living in step with the Holy Spirit, letting His truth override deception, and reflecting God’s love to others?
Respond
Pray through today’s reading, reflecting on the questions just posed. What do you think God is prompting you to do in response? Write it down, share it with a friend, and take a step to start making it happen.