Opposites

On and off. North and south. Happy and sad. Ever since we were kids, we've understood the basic concept of the way opposites work. Opposites are characterized as being "contrary or radically different in some respect common to both." Two things that are opposites could not possibly be more unalike than they already are. In other words, there is nothing more different from the idea of light than the idea of darkness.

Read 1 John 1:5-7; focus on vs. 7.

1. Throughout these verses, John uses the words "light" and "darkness" as symbols. What was he really getting at?
2. What does verse 6 say results when you claim to have a relationship with God and do not live like it?
3. How can we tell if we are walking in "light" or in "darkness"? Which one would more accurately characterize your life right now?
4. What can you do this week to begin walking more in the "light" so that your relationship with God and other Christians will grow?
5. Have you come to a time when, as John writes in verse 7, the blood of Jesus Christ cleansed you from all unrighteousness?

Probably one of the simplest opposites we learned early on as a child were right and wrong. We are shown by our parents and teachers the right way to behave, and we are disciplined when we show the wrong way to act. In much the same way, these opposites play a tremendous role in our spiritual journey of becoming more and more like Christ. As we grow in our faith and maturity, we will be characterized more and more as walking in the "light" and less and less in light's opposite, "darkness".

Someone once said that "fellowship with the brethren [other Christians] is the proof of fellowship with God." Do you enjoy meeting together with other believers for the purpose of studying God's Word and praying together? This is a sign of growth in your love for the Lord and a consequence of walking in the Lord's will. As you continue down the path of faith, may it be said about you more every day that you are "walking in the light."

** Today's devo is part of a series studying through the book of 1 John.