1 John 2:12-14

I write to you, dear children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of his name. I write to you, fathers, because you have known him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I write to you, dear children, because you have known the Father. I write to you, fathers, because you have known him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God lives in you, and you have overcome the evil one.

John seems to write in a circular fashion, spiraling back to the same ideas and at the same time deepening his point. This section offers us courage and reassurance as we "fight the good fight" of faith.

I don't know how you girls were feeling as we read previous verses, but I would occasionally get a little discouraged. I thought - here I am walking in darkness, claiming to know Jesus but not living as He did (does!) and giving in to the devil's schemes at every turn.

In come John's beautiful reminders - Yes, BUT your sins have been forgiven for Jesus' sake. Yes, BUT you do know the Father he who is, who was, who ever will be. Yes, BUT Christ has already conquered all your enemies, including the devil.

Let's soak up this Spirit-sent comfort!