Verse of the Day: Anyone Who Does Not Love Remains in Death–1 John 3:14-15

Verse of the Day: Anyone Who Does Not Love Remains in Death–1 John 3:14-15

“We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love each other. Anyone who does not love remains in death. Anyone who hates a brother or sister is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life residing in him” –1 John 3:14-15.

The Gospel makes all things clear. There is very little gray area. While Jesus died for our sins, we are called to repentance and then to turn away from said sin – not to continue doing it. According to Jesus, the second most powerful Commandment is to love our neighbor — to love other people as we love ourselves. To care for the less fortunate, and to be good stewards of all of God’s Creation. This verse makes clear that we will know we stand in God’s grace, “have passed from death to life”, when we love (and forgive) others like Jesus has loved (and forgiven) us. Anyone who doesn’t, according to His Word, “still remains in death” (is not abiding in Christ). Scripture goes on to warn us that whoever hates another is considered a “murderer” – and “no murderer has eternal life residing in them.”

If there is any hate or unforgiveness in your heart today, go to God. Ask Him to help you to forgive and to love … even when it’s difficult. This is just as important for the other person (and their potential salvation) as it is for your own. Forgiveness and love will set you free. Go to God with it, He will help you!

[Read and meditate on this verse today. How does it make you feel about the people in your life today? Have you forgiven those who’ve hurt you? Let us know how we can pray for you in the comment section below.]