1 John 4:4 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.
The part that says, “…the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world” is a favorite of mine. It brings to mind songs and other scripture that underscores the same point–God is not only WITH us, He is not only FOR us, He is IN us as well.
1 John 4:5 They are from the world and therefore speak from the viewpoint of the world, and the world listens to them.
The preposition IN denotes a closeness, a connection, that this world cannot offer us. I’ve heard this verse used as a weapon (“How dare you fear?!? God is with you. Don’t you trust Him?!?), but for me, it is a loving reminder. “I know you’re afraid. Of course you are. But you don’t need to be because He is IN you. You are not alone.”
1 John 4:6a We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us….
Precious Savior, You know my doubts and fears. You know my struggles. Thank You for sending me to Joshua and 1 John, for showing me that You are WITH me, FOR me, IN me. Thank You that You are infinitely gentle and fiercely loving and not full of anger or wrath. Thank You for Your presence in my life. Amen.
1 John 4:6b …This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood.
Have a blessed day.