1 John 2:7-17

Be still: Lord Jesus, I still my heart today. Holy Spirit guide and inspire me to know who I am in you. Amen

Read: 1 John 2:7-17

I remind you, dear children: your sins have been permanently removed because of the power of his name. I remind you, fathers and mothers: you have a relationship with the One who has existed from the beginning. And I remind you, young people: you have defeated the Evil One. I write these things to you, dear children, because you truly have a relationship with the Father. I write these things, fathers and mothers, because you have had a true relationship with him who is from the beginning. And I write these things, young people, because you are strong, the Word of God is treasured in your hearts, and you have defeated the Evil One.' (v12-14 TPT – a devotional translation.)

Encounter: We’ve seen throughout this week how a life of faith takes shape. Now, in today's passage, John brings it all together. What John describes in our passage is spiritual maturity. And guess what? It’s not instant. It unfolds slowly like a tree growing deeper roots and leaves.

John paints a picture of growth in three stages:

1.Children – Forgiven. Embraced. Loved.

This is where the journey begins. Not with spiritual performance or serving, but with grace. You are forgiven. You are welcomed. You are loved. And here’s the truth: even if you’ve been walking with Jesus for decades, you never outgrow grace. 

2.Young People – Strength in the Struggle

This is the season of fighting the good fight and winning.

It involves learning to stand firm, even when it’s hard, but also knowing God’s Word isn’t just for reading – it’s your weapon and your anchor. Victory is a present promise in Jesus. This is the season where faith is tested – but also strengthened.

3.Fathers and Mothers – The Deep Knowing

This is maturity – not loud, not flashy, but deeply rooted.

John says these are the ones who 'knew him from the beginning.'

These are those people who’ve walked with God long enough to trust his timing, recognise his whisper and rest in his goodness.

This kind of maturity doesn’t come from age – it comes from abiding.

It’s not about having all the answers, but about being anchored in relationship.

This is what we’re growing toward: not perfection, but presence.

Apply: So, Where Are You?

Wherever you are in this journey; child, young person, or spiritual parent – know this: you matter. Your season matters. God is forming you into his image.

Which phase do you most identify with right now? What would it look like to embrace that season fully today?

Devote: Lord, thank you that you meet me right where I am. Whether I feel like a child, a warrior, or deeply rooted, you are with me. Grow me in grace. Teach me to trust.

Form Christ in me, for all your glory forever and ever.