It is important to tell people that God loves them and that you love them. However, words are not enough: ‘My dear children, let’s not just talk about love; let’s practice real love’ (v.18, MSG). Demonstrate your love in the way that Jesus did – by actions, especially towards the poor.
Confidence is the opposite of condemnation. Condemnation never comes from God: ‘There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus’ (Romans 8:1). Condemnation comes either from the devil – who is the accuser – or from our own hearts (1 John 3:20).
There is a big difference between condemnation – ‘debilitating self-criticism’ (v.20, MSG) – and conviction of sin, which comes from the Holy Spirit (John 16:8). When the Holy Spirit convinces us about our sins it is very specific. We know what we have done wrong. The purpose is to help us repent, be restored and lifted up again.
On the other hand, condemnation is more of a nebulous feeling of guilt and shame that makes us feel bad about ourselves – even after we’ve repented and asked for forgiveness. It steals our confidence before God.
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