Monday 26 November, 2018

26 I am writing these things to you about those who are trying to lead you astray. 27 As for you, the anointing you received from him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit—just as it has taught you, remain in him. 28 And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming. 29 If you know that he is righteous, you know that everyone who does what is right has been born of him.

It’s a simple message that John wants us to hear. If you don’t want to be led astray, then remain in fellowship with Christ.

As John points out to us, we know this message is true, not just because John says it is true, but because we also have the Holy Spirit within us teaching us the same thing – remain in fellowship with Christ.

Is there anything trying to led you astray? Yes. Whenever there is anything – a person or a message, a fear, worry, concern, doubt, trial, temptation, whatever – it’s a long list, all are trying to lead us astray, wanting to distract us, confuse us, dominate our thoughts and time and energy. These things want to be the centre of our world, leading us astray from Christ. We are led astray when Christ is not the centre of our lives.

How do we not let these things lead us astray? Remain in fellowship with Christ.

Simple. It’s easy to forget, and I often need reminding, but I know it’s true.

Remain in fellowship with Christ. Stay in his Word. Stay in community with his people.

Father, help me to remain focused on you, focused on Christ, to remain in fellowship with Christ. All the things that would lead me astray, I submit them to you, for you are Lord over all.

Written by Andrew Martin