“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4 NIV)

           “You belong to God” addresses the reader as “dear children” shows a close bond to God.  For we are all children of God.  We are beloved and created in His image.  

           “Already overcome” this phrase shows us that as believers we can stand against false ideas, corruption and sin because of God’s power, not our own. We find our strength through God!

           “God is greater” shows us that the Holy Spirit who dwells inside us, who guides us and sustains us has more power than the devil or worldly evils or temptations.  

           This verse is about false teachers, false prophets who can lead us away from what we know is right and true.  In this verse the author (John) reminds us that our strength comes from truth and love which is from God, which gives us courage to stand firm in our faith.  Thus we can say “no” to the world of sin and temptation.  

Things really have not changed since when this book was written.  What do you think?  The same sins and temptation back then still apply to us today!  Pride, greed, lust, envy, gluttony, wrath, sloth, stealing, murder and sexual immorality.

           This verse applies to us today because it helps us to overcome cultural and social pressures.  This verse helps to remind us that we do not have to give in to societal pressures.  This verse offers assurance that God’s truth provides the wisdom and discernment needed to navigate confusion and spot deception. It also promises that “the one who is in you is greater” than the devil or anything else no matter how massive, or small it is.  We forget nor do we at times rely upon the knowledge that God is there with you always! He will guide you and sustain you—if you let Him, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.  God Bless. Amen.

denise