1 John 2:15-28

Fight the Good Fight!

We have been told not to fight, or at least not to throw the first punch, but self-defense is acceptable and condoned in most circles. The announcers of a boxing match can be heard using the term “good fight.”  That seems to mean strategic moves are utilized, and the participants are somewhat evenly matched in order to prolong the competition to entertain the audience.

As I read today's words about not loving the world and warning of the antichrists, I heard the words in my head from a song by the group Unspoken. 

The title is “Good Fight” and speaks directly to us from God’s perspective. The lyrics encourage  us to keep fighting and letting God's light shine. The message is that although the world is hard on us and we are under attack, God will never leave us. This fight is one worth fighting and though it is sometimes too much to bear it is a fight God wants us to take part in and win!

In 1 John 2:15-28, John's letter includes words of warning about the world, but also encouragement, support, reassurance, inspiration and hope, just as the lyrics of "Good Fight."

Please listen to the song “Good Fight”

Please read/listen to 1 John 2:15-28

2 Timothy 3: 16-17

                 Looking for inspiration? “Google It!”

I did. As I read through the hundreds of inspirational quotes, it occurred to me that though not stated, a good portion of them were bible based whether the author of the message intended it to be or not. It is true that many quotes people think came from the bible,  have no biblical base, such as “God helps those who help themselves,” but to an extent it is good to know that God’s name is being referenced in the life of those who may not be truly committed. There are also verses spoken by preachers and teachers of the word that may not be directly taken from the bible yet reference how we are to live our lives based on biblical principles, like one of my favorites from Chuck Swindoll. 

In 2 Timothy 3:16-17 we are reminded: "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." 

If we are familiar with God's word, we can make reference to his teachings and help others make connections to the bible; our training manual for life, when we have the opportunity. Everyone loves to be inspired, so let's use our daily circumstances and interactions to direct others to His Word. What does the bible say?

1 Chronicles 28:20                    James 1:23-25
Deuteronomy 31:6                    1 John 3:18
Joshua 1:9                                Colossians 3:23-24
Psalm 27:14                              1 Peter 1:13
1 John 1:9                                  Hebrews 6:11-12
Philippians 4:13                         Daniel 11:32
Proverbs 28:13                          Luke 11:9
James 4:10                               James 2: 14-17
...and many more                      ...and many more

            2 Corinthians 5:17

            James 1:12
            Romans 5: 3-5
            Matthew 24:13
            Hebrews 10:36
            Acts 2:38
            Matthew 18: 21-22
            Psalm 32:5
            Luke 23:43
            ...and many more