Little children, guard yourselves from idols. (1John 5:18-21) 131107
As Apostle John came to the end of his letter, he reminded his readers the purpose of this letter. He reminded them that they were born of God and therefore, He will keep them from the evil one even though the whole world was lying in the power to the evil one (v18-19). And he also reminded them that God had already come and had victory through the work of one true Son, Jesus Christ, on the Cross, so that they might have eternal life (v20). And all this reminders are also for us too.
In this season, as I read through the first letter of John, I was actually going through difficult struggles in my own walk with God and also difficult situation in my own life in general. I would not say that I have already overcome the situation or even have work through my struggles, but I am confident that I am not alone. God is with me.
Once again, I was reminded of my position in Christ, and I was reminded what Christ had done on the Cross for me, His beloved child. As I continually recognizing my brokenness, I also recognized the power of the Cross. Seminary has made me think and reflect real deep. And I am in deep trouble too. As I learn more and more about the greatness of God, I can only conclude the smallness of myself. Who am I that Christ comes to die for me and my sins?
Self reflection is good, confession is good for the soul, but we must also guard ourselves. As John in his final words in the letter, he mentioned three things, which is really powerful, though the words are simple. He said, "Little children, guard yourselves from idols." (v21)
First, John reminded our position and identity in God: we are His little children. He was not referring to little children, but Christians. Though some might argue that ‘little children’ refers to young and new believers (cf. 2:12-14). I would concur that as long as we believe in Christ as Lord, we are His little children and this idea is consistent in the letter of John. And because of our position in God as little children, we can be sure that God will protect us as a Father do. And God is the perfect Father who is all powerful to protect.
Second, John also reminded us to guard ourselves. Though God will protect us, it is not wise for us to walk out of God’s protection. The word ‘guard’ has the connotation of watching carefully. In other words, we are to carefully watch over our lives, as in the way we live. This reminds my of Ephesians 5:15. Paul commanded us to be careful how we walk, not as unwise men (or fools), but as wise. Yes, let us be wise and be careful in the way we live our lives. Live it right before God.
Third, John warned us about idols. We might think that we are Christians, we are not worshiping any idol. But we know very well that our jog or career could become our idol, our children could be our idol, our studies could be our idol, our relationships could be our idol, our past hurts could be our idol and even our ministries could become our idol! What is your idol? Guard yourselves from it.
Take time to reflect about your life, what could has become your idol? We say that God is our Lord, and we want to be His disciples, but in reality, we are lying if there are still idols in our life and we are not guarding against them. Don’t be a liar, be true to yourself and to God. We cannot lie to God.
As I end this letter, I will also take a break from writing devotion regularly. I will still write as and when the Lord leads me. If there is any book of the Bible you would want me to spend time reflecting or write on, feel free to let me know. I will likely to start writing again after Christmas. Meanwhile, I will still do my devotion and try to post something.
HHS…
God…
