Instructions are given so that we do not err. There are times when people tell us not to do certain things; not to go somewhere, not to take something, not to act in a particular way and all. These rules are given so that we may know how to behave ourselves. They also at the same time serve as the basis on which punishments are given if the rules are disobeyed.
In football, for example, it is expected that when as a player you're booked the first time for committing an offense, you may likely receive a warning or you get a yellow card immediately, and that implies that all through the game, you're expected to coordinate yourself so you don't get a second yellow card, and if you do, it automatically means you're out of the game. Do you know why? Because the rules were stated clearly even before the game. The most amazing thing is this, when that happens, no one can plead your case; not the coach, not the players, and not the fans. The referee's decision stands no matter what others may think, and so the only way to avoid that is to abide by the rules.
The illustration above is to paint a picture to help enhance our understanding of today's lesson. The first epistle of John the beloved captured a very important lesson that we ought to learn as believers, chiefly the fact that certain things have been written so that we do not err, and that if peradventure we err, there's a provision for reconciliation. The scripture is seen below,
"My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous". (1 John 2:1)
According to the scripture below, we can see the fact that we do have an advocate, that is, one who pleads for us before God the Father(Romans 8:34). It was stated in the illustration above that when a footballer receives a second yellow card, he gets to face the consequence of being sent off the pitch, and no one would be able to plead for him, right?
However, the case is different from ours. The scripture opens with the fact that the things written not just in this book now, but also applicable to all scripture were written such that we do not err.
Listen to what he says next, though these things have been written so that we do not err, although we may err or do something that is not consistent with the nature of God we now have, even then I want us to remember this, that we have an advocate who is Jesus Christ, the righteous.
Was he saying we had the freedom to do just anything, and deliberately act in ways that are not consistent with the nature of God in us? The answer is no. What then is this trying to say to us? There are times when we may act in ways that are inconsistent with the nature of God in us, and rather than condemn ourselves, and feel helpless, and guilty, we should remember that there is one who pleads our case, and because he does plead our case, we can go boldly before the Lord to help us, and we will indeed find rest for our souls (Hebrews 4:16). The Lord blesses his word in our hearts.
Daily Nugget: You're not to condemn yourself when sometimes as a believer, you act in ways that are inconsistent with God's nature in you. Someone (Jesus) is there pleading your case, and as a result, you can come before God to seek forgiveness from him and find rest for your soul.
Prayer: Thank you Lord for your Son Jesus. Oh, that I may always find the grace not to err, and that even if I do, to come before you to seek help so that I walk before you in a way that is pleasing knowing that Christ is my advocate in Jesus' name. Amen.
Gospel Today is a comforting, exhorting, edifying and inspiring devotional published by the Delightsome Land Christian, Ministry. For questions, inquiries/testimonies, please call or WhatsApp: 09168301042 or Email: [email protected].
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