As you read today’s passage, just accept the very simple, clear truths here. Like the brilliant Epiphany star that shines the brighter because if it is set against the black of night, so does John make contrasts between light and darkness, death and life, love and hate.
I’m reminded of one of my favorite passages in the Old Testament: Deuteronomy 30. Both Moses and John are near the end of their lives, so their instructions are very clear. In Deuteronomy 30:19 Moses says, “I am offering you life or death, blessings or curses. Now, choose life! Then you and your children may live.” John expresses it this way in verse 14: “We know we have left death and have come into life because we love each other. Whoever does not love is still dead.”
Which way will you go today—toward life, or toward death? Stop at moments of transition in your day. Perhaps like an astronaut, you may need “mid-course” correction!
Examples of Bible Breaths Learn More…
Called to love one another v. 11
From death to life through loving v. 14
Abiding in love through deeds v. 17
You are greater than our hearts. v. 20
Tap on “Study” beneath the passage in BibleGateway.
Scroll down to “Matthew Henry’s Commentary“
Which I recommend.
Tap to read more: Matthew Henry in Wikipedia.
Thursdays are dedicated to the letters of Paul, other letters,
the Book of Acts, and the Book of Revelation.
These Firestarters are from a new edition of The Bible Through the Seasons being developed for families with children. For the Firestarters in the original edition, I recommend the ebook. You will have the entire program of well over a thousand of these introductions with you on your phone or table! Check the menu options at the site for more information.
The Bible Through the Seasons 