Pocket Sized Thoughts – 1 John – Part 8

I write to you little children … young man … fathers.” (2:12-14).

The love of God is not static, but something we grow and develop in. In his writing, John mentions three stages of growth in Christian life :- little children, fathers and young men. Each has its own characteristics. One is not better than the other, but each represents different stages in Christian maturity. Little children know the forgiveness of sins and the love of the father. This is essential and foundational. Young men are strong and have learnt to overcome. This is not due to their own strength but the strength of the indwelling word of God imparted to them. How vital it is for young men as they grow up to know their Bible well. Fathers are mature, secure and stable. Such security and stability provides safety for others to shelter under. Blessed is the church that has all these three stages of godly life amply demonstrated within it. We are not meant to remain at one stage but be inspired to mature into the next. In this, God can use us in a multitude of ways to make His kingdom increase and to help all of His children to know more of the Father who gives us His life to grow in.

PRAYER :- “Lord, help me to grow in to all the fullness and maturity of Your life within me.”