On the Right Side
1 John 3:19-24
This is how we know that we belong to the truth and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence: 20 If our hearts condemn us, we know that God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything. 21 Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God 22 and receive from him anything we ask, because we keep his commands and do what pleases him. 23 And this is his command: to believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as he commanded us. 24 The one who keeps God’s commands lives in him, and he in them. And this is how we know that he lives in us: We know it by the Spirit he gave us.
Actor Christoph Waltz was once asked how he was able to portray such a despicable villain so well, an evil Nazi officer. Waltz replied that in the character’s mind, he believed he was right. Can you imagine someone doing such evil things, but thinking all along they were on the right side of history?
If you remember, John’s letter was written to a church in crisis. People who were once part of the community denied the truth about Jesus and left. Those who were left may have wondered to themselves, “Am I on the right side?” John sets out to give these believers some assurance.
A few verses before, John said that love is seen in Christ’s sacrifice for us. If we can’t share that generosity with others, John questions how God’s love can be in that person. How do we know where we stand? We set our hearts in God’s presence; the Greek word literally means positioning ourselves in front of God. What do we see when we face God?
If our hearts condemn us, it’s because we don’t see God’s great generosity in us. But, as John taught earlier, we can find forgiveness and mercy. But, if our hearts don’t condemn us because we are full of the kind of love Jesus showed to us, then we have confidence before God. That confidence translates to our ability to trust God in prayer.
We have assurance of our place with Jesus as we walk in obedience with Him. The Holy Spirit helps us to know the truth about Jesus. The Spirit reminds us of who we are.
If you wonder where you stand with God, don’t sit around in fear. Take your life before God. Be an open book. If there’s something to change, He’ll show you, but if you’re on the right track, He’ll show that, too. Sitting in God’s presence is the perfect way to gain confidence in your prayers.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we are thankful for your assurance. Thank You for not allowing us to sit in confusion or fear. We know that Your presence will show us the truth, and Your mercy is always available. Help us to walk in Your love and kindness toward others. Amen.