“And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming. 29 If you know that he is righteous, you know that everyone who does what is right has been born of him.” 1 John 2.28-29
John’s words are simple and straightforward: “Continue in him.” What does that even mean? If I am running a race and growing weary, to finish, I must continue. If I am in a committed relationship that becomes difficult, I must continue. If I am working on a necessary but challenging task, I must continue.
In our faith, we must continue. There is no giving up, quitting, or stopping. Not that we would want to, but once we say YES to Jesus, it is a YES for life. There is no ceasing. We continue to grow, develop, and prosper. I have seen people who came to faith in Christ and their faith quickly blossomed, like the parable of the sower casting seeds on rocky soil. It grew fast but soon died.
However, this is not our faith. We continue with joy. We press on with enthusiasm, “so that,” John writes, “when he appears, we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming.” And I do hope He comes quickly. Not that I am ready to leave these worldly attachments, relationships, and endeavors—not just yet, but soon. He will return to bring all people to Himself. We are those who have been made righteous, as He is righteous (v. 29), and we have “been born of Him.” We are new creatures, new people, remade in His image, not merely to endure but to persevere and overcome.
After nearly four decades of walking with Christ, I still don’t have it all figured out. I am a pilgrim in progress, walking toward the light of Christ and seeking obedience daily. I am more surrendered in some areas than others, but it is my heart’s desire to give Christ all that I am and thus “continue” in the faith.
As I wrap up a trip to Bulgaria visiting Global Methodist Churches, I am keenly aware of the need for the Spirit to wash over His people, this country, and our world. We need a boost from God, and in turn, He calls us to continue in the faith—to seek, to walk, to pray, to fast, to lean into His everlasting arms until Jesus comes or calls.
“O Lord God, thank You for loving me. Thank You for allowing me to be all that You have called and created me to be for You and Your glory. Use me as You will in Your Body. Help me take steps to deepen my love and devotion to You. I love You, Lord, and praise Your name. For You are good, and Your love endures forever.” Amen