1 JOHN 2:24-25

As for you, see that what you have heard from the beginning remains in you. If it does, you also will remain in the Son and in the Father. And this is what he promised us—eternal life.

TO PONDER

When our kids were younger we bought them a trampoline for Christmas. It got a lot of use! The kids would do backward flips and somersaults and all sorts of tricks. But the only reason they would attempt it, is because there was a safety net right around the perimeter of the trampoline. The safety net was not just there to protect the kids as they jumped, but it also gave them courage to attempt to do so.

Grandpa John, in writing to his spiritual grandchildren, reminds them of the safety net of God's promises, that helps them live as disciples. In a world which was confusing, in a world which was distracting, John tells them to hold on to the promise of eternal life they have been given; a promise that was given to them the day they became God's children. This gift of eternal life changes our perspective. This gift of eternal life gives us confidence to live. This gift of eternal life gives us boldness to try new things, to do the right thing, to listen to the voice of Jesus in the midst of the other competing voices. The gift of eternal life is more than a safety net...it propels you into action, into living as a disciple of Jesus. Let the promise remain in you today...and tomorrow...and the next day.

PRAYER

Lord Jesus, give me boldness to try new things for you today, because the promise and gift of eternal life in you will keep me safe. Amen.