Practice The Truth

I'm participating in an online Bible study of 1 John. (We just started so if anyone is interested, go to Everyday Theology and send Kristine an email.)

In chapter one, verse 6, John tells us, "If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth." It was this 'do not practice the truth' part that pierced my heart. If I'm to stay in the Light, my life must involve practicing the truth. And where is the truth found? Within the God-inspired pages of Holy Writ. And 'how' do I continue on in the Truth? By the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit.

I've really been pondering this the last few days. I desperately want to live in the truth, be a 'doer' of the Word, not just a hearer. But I also know I won't be a perfect doer, as long as sin remains in this mortal body of mine. But I have a NEW nature - a heart of flesh replacing the heart of stone. I am ultimately under the control of God's Spirit. Praise Him for that!!!!

As I told a friend, I am desperately dependent on God to not leave me to my own devices. It is only through the power of the Holy Spirit that I am able to practice the truth so that I don't fall prey to myself or to the sin that so easily entangles me.

I pray, God, please do not remove Your hand from me.