I have written to you, fathers, because you know Him who has been
from the beginning. I have written to you, young men, because you
are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have
overcome the evil one (1 John 2:14).

First John 2:12-14 describes three levels of Christian growth in
relation to sin. The first level is compared to “little children”
(verse 12). Little children in the faith are characterized by
having their sins forgiven and possessing a knowledge of God. In
other words, they are in the family of God and have overcome the
penalty of sin, but they haven’t grown to full maturity.

The second level is “young men” (verses 13, 14), those who have
overcome the evil one. These are aggressively growing believers
who are strong because the Word of God abides in them. They know
the truth and how to use it to resist Satan in the battle for
their minds. They are no longer in bondage to uncontrollable
habits, and they have resolved the personal and spiritual
conflicts which keep many Christians from experiencing freedom in
Christ. They are free, and they know how to stay free.

The third level is “fathers” (verses 13, 14), those who have
developed a deep personal knowledge of God. Their faith is
securely founded on a close, intimate, loving relationship with
God which is the goal of our spiritual growth. What about your
faith? Are you a “child,” a “young man” or a “father”? Is it your
daily goal to grow to maturity in your faith? Have you overcome
the evil one?

Having challenged us to combat sin’s power in our lives through a
commitment to growth, John goes on to describe the avenues
through which Satan tempts us: the lust of the flesh, the lust of
the eyes, and the boastful pride of life. We will consider these
avenues over the next few days.

Heavenly Father, please shake me good if I become stagnant ,
stale or static in my spiritual growth. I want to grow into Your
image of me.

This daily devotional is published and distributed by
http://www.GOSHEN.net/ . It is written by Neil Anderson at
http://www.freedominchrist.com/ .