“Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. 8 The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work. 9 No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God. 10 This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not God’s child, nor is anyone who does not love their brother and sister.” 1 John 3.7-10
Our world is full of comparisons. If you spend any time on social media, you will learn that, when given a chance, humans often try to better themselves by degrading others. The comparison game on these platforms easily suggests the frail nature of humanity and the inclination toward sin. You never see someone having a bad day on Instagram. Why would you take a selfie if you looked terrible? Everyone presents their best on social media, driven by a need to be liked, to be admired, and to hide any deficiencies inside.
In this passage, John also makes a comparison between those who have been born of God and those who are children of the devil. The dividing line is one’s relationship to sin. Those who no longer sin are righteous (v.7), while those who continue to sin are of the devil (v.8). John makes an astounding statement, which I also reflected upon yesterday: “No one who is born of God will continue to sin.” I find this both hopeful and terrifying.
The comparison in Scripture divides all of humanity into two groups: 1) those who love God and obey His commands, and 2) those who disobey God and follow their own desires and intentions. I want to be in the first group and am probably there 90% of the time. It’s just that 10% that gets me! I am striving toward perfection and entire sanctification, as John Wesley taught. My desire is to please God in everything I do. While on this earth, I have the opportunity to do my best. I can no longer compare myself to others or this world. Why would I want to? I must compare myself to the sinless, perfect Lamb of God. Jesus is our model, our hope, and our love.
Tired of comparing yourself to the world? Try submitting to Jesus. Allow Him to be your example, both now and for eternity.
“O Lord God, thank You for loving me. When I am lost, You find me. When I am hiding, You reveal Yourself to me. When I am weak, You draw me close. Come now, Holy Spirit, and help me walk according to Your ways. Inspire me to become more like You. For you are good and your love endures forever.” Amen