It's Very Black and White

Scripture: This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 1 John 1:5

Observation: In his longest letter we have, John starts by focusing on one fact ... that there is a very, very clear difference between good and evil, right and wrong, light and dark. The "light" is God, and it is known by the teachings of Jesus, love for one another, understanding of sin, and active obedience to these things. The "dark" is any and all activities that are opposed to these three things - sin, denial of sin, lack of understanding, and especially hatred of other believers - and these things are outside of God.

Anyone who walks in the dark, walks outside of God's ways. John leaves no room for negotiation here. People who claim the are believers, yet sins, denies they even sin, lies, hates other believers, or fails to obey Christ, is not a believer. Believers "in the light" love each other, obey the precepts and commands, departs from sin, and yet also acknowledges they do sin and seeks forgiveness.

Application: I am a sinner, and I have had anger toward other believers. This latter issue is one I absolutely must address. Lately, I have seen the good in others more and more, and it has made me happier. Amazing how that happens! God knows I want fellowship, and that I will be happier having fellowship with my fellow flawed believers than with my own flawed thoughts.

As with all inspired words, John's instructions sound hard and restrictive, but are actually freeing and empowering for my happiness. They aren't a burden, but a relief. Obeying Jesus, avoiding sin, and loving others are the path to a great life.

Prayer: Lord, I have sought more and more an understanding of your commands, especially your instruction to love one another. May I continue to improve in this. I have seen examples in action, and I now seek to do so myself more and more. I will try to avoid bad thoughts and conversations about others. I will not judge based on my artificial standards. I will engage as a member of the community. May I walk more and more in your perfect light. Amen.