The Test of Knowing Him
“He who loves his brother abides in the light, and there is no cause for stumbling in him. But he who hates his brother is in darkness and walks in darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.”
—1 John 2:10–11
I was meditating on the reality that when a person is deceived, they don’t realize it—so how can they get better? But God knows our thoughts! While I was looking up something else in the Bible, I came across this passage under the title above. I thought, Okay, here we go…
“Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. He who says, ‘I know Him,’ and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.”
—1 John 2:3–6 (ESV)
John was writing to believers in a time when false teaching and deception were spreading—much like today. As I continued reading, I was encouraged, because this passage reminds us of the assurance we have when we truly listen to the Holy Spirit within us. He warns us when we are being deceived, and He speaks truth. The challenge is making sure we are listening.
Over the years, I have learned that Yeshua always gives me the answer—but almost immediately, Satan comes with a counter, a question, or an idea that seems more appealing.
For example, I might ask, “Lord, what should I wear today?” The Spirit leads me to an outfit, but the moment I step into my closet, I notice something else and start reaching for it instead. Time and again, the Holy Spirit has graciously reminded me of how Satan works to distract and mislead.
But here is our assurance:
“But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and you know all things. I have not written to you because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and that no lie is of the truth.”
—1 John 2:20–21 (ESV)
I write these things to you about those who are trying to deceive you. 27 But the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie—just as it has taught you, abide in him.—1 John 2:26-27 (ESV)
Every believer knows the truth because Yeshua has placed it within us. It is up to each of us to know and listen to the voice of God.
Key Takeaways
Believers are not deceived—they know the truth.
The truth gives warnings; it is up to us to respond.
Following the flesh will always lead to a fall.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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