A Challenge to Search
A MOST ASSURING WORD - "KNOW"
One of the most significant words in the entire Epistle of First John is the word "know." Are you aware that it occurs THIRTY-SEVEN times?
We are informed that the Gospel of John was written that we might "have life", (John 20:31); the Epistle of First John seeming was written that we might "KNOW that we have life." (I John 5:13).
Life in the Spirit is conducive to a knowledge that is more positive than mere assuring. It goes deeper than the head; it is of the heart. This knowledge is a consciousness of the truth and reality, wrought as a conviction in the soul. Just as I have an inherent consciousness, which is far more than knowledge gleaned from a birth record, that I am my father's son - so is the assurance by the Spirit of God to me, through the Word, that I am God's son.
TAKING A MENTAL TOUR
To go through the "knows", written by the "Apostle of Assurance," will bring rich returns in the coins of heavenly confidence.
1. Not only do we know Him; - "we KNOW that we know Him;"
2. Not only have we passed from death unto life; - "we KNOW we have passed from death unto life;"
3. Not only are we of the truth; - "we KNOW we are of the truth;"
4. Not only does He abide in us; - "we KNOW that He abideth in us;"
5. Not only do we dwell (abide) in Him; - "we KNOW that we dwell in Him;"
6. Not only do we have eternal life; - "we KNOW that we have eternal life;"
7. Not only does God hear our prayers; - "we KNOW that He hears us;"
8. Not only are we of God; - "we KNOW we are of God."
Let me challenge each reader to peruse this Epistle so as to supply the
supportive verses relative to what we "KNOW!" It will prove to be a good
exercise.
I KNOW it will bless your heart.
Lee R. Russell
Used by permission