Online Devotions: March 23 (1 John 2:1)

Sunday, March 23, 2014

March 23 (1 John 2:1)

My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. (ESV)

When I am in particular moods, there are just certain songs I want to hear. I have listened to them countless times, but I go back to them, knowing what they will say and wanting to hear them again. When I need to be reminded of the love and forgiveness of God, I go to the book of 1 John. In fact, I was out for a walk recently, and just the thought of this epistle brought a smile to my face.

I try not to sin. I really do. Yet the pressures of life in this world and my human weakness constantly conspire and the next you know, there I am in the soup again. This verse is a great reminder of two things. We should not sin, but if we do, we have a friend who will defend us.

My wife and I are on the same page when it comes to parenting and we back each other’s plays with the children. Sometimes, though, I am able to come to our son’s defense because I remember what it was like to be a boy. Jesus knows what it is like to be human. He was one and He can plead our case as no one else before our Father.

Jesus, You know how much I think I can do everything, but You also know what a joke that is. You know I am weak. Defend me, Lord, and lead me not into temptation, but deliver me from evil. Amen.

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History of Online Devotions

In January of 1999, I began the Online Devotions with the teens of the church we were attending. Each week they would receive a verse of Scripture, a short reflection, and a prayer. Over the years others subscribed to this email list, and soon the Online Devotions were going out to people across the country and beyond.

In 2007 I published in book format a collection called Desert Days: Forty Devotions for Men.

After suggestions from several readers, I launched in 2010 the Online Devotions blog. Devotions are still available each week by email, and if you would like to subscribe, please indicate so in the comment box.

As I have always said, if one of these devotions touches you, you can be sure it was from God. If one leaves you flat, then there was too much of me in it.