Born from God

1 John 5:18-19 We know that those who have been born from God don't go on sinning. Rather, the Son of God protects them, and the evil one can’t harm them. 19 We know that we are from God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one.
 
IF you have followed along with these teachings over the past year, you have had an opportunity to read the apostle John’s gospel of Jesus’ ministry and John’s prophecy from Revelation. Two reoccurring themes in those two books are evident here: 1) Christians are those who have been born anew from God’s grace into the family of God. 2) God allows Satan to have a time to control some hearts and minds throughout the earth.
    To be born from God echoes Jesus’ teaching in John 3:3 In reply Jesus declared, “I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.” And know this family language in John 1:12 Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.
    God has acted to birth you anew. You are re-formed into his likeness to join with his family! The rebirth not only give you a new identity called “Christian”, it gives you a new purpose and a new structure for your life. John urges you to consider how to joyfully, lovingly live in your new family. Jesus is your “big brother” protector, so the evil one cannot harm you.
    You need Jesus’ protection. Trials and temptations mark your life as the Father permits Satan to roam the earth. But know and believe God has a shield on your soul. You have the means to resist the devil and confess Christ Jesus.
    Yes, we all are tempted. Even Jesus was several times. Yet, we can deny the lies in Jesus’ power. The apostle Paul affirms temptation is even a strengthening process. Facing down temptation with Jesus’ resurrection power, you will more abundantly trust God’s power to enrich and guard your life: 1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it. Yes, child of God, stand in your Father’s presence alongside the Son. You can be sure he is the means to resist evil.
    If your life, though, reflects a continual desire to oppose God, your soul may be in danger. To go on sinning is the attitude of a careless life. Yes, we all sin. But what is your desire? If you are desiring evil and avoiding God, check your faith. It’s time to repent and return to the Son’s protection. The Bible clearly teaches it is not possible to truly call Jesus, “Brother.” and then say, “No.” to his commands, his church and his Word.  
 
Life Thought: The evil one cannot control the born-again soul.