Stages
Scripture: 1 John 2 TPT
12 I remind you, dear children: your sins have been permanently removed because of the power of his name. 13 I remind you, fathers and mothers: you have a relationship with the One who has existed from the beginning. And I remind you, young people: you have defeated the Evil One. 14 I write these things to you, dear children, because you truly have a relationship with the Father. I write these things, fathers and mothers, because you have had a true relationship with him who is from the beginning. And I write these things, young people, because you are strong, the Word of God is treasured in your hearts, and you have defeated the Evil One. (1 John 2:12-14 TPT)
Dear Children: Your sins have been permanently removed and you truly have a relationship with the Father. Permanently removed. Dear Children of the Father. Your most important thing in the “Dear Children” season of your life of faith is to get to know your Father intimately: To learn his ways, to know his character, to trust his love and care. Everything else will follow in season. There will be Fathers and Mothers to guide you and Strong Young People to inspire and challenge you. Learn to trust God’s love and God’s ways.
Fathers and Mothers: You have a relationship with the One who has existed from the beginning. You have a relationship with Jesus Christ and through him, with the Father. Through that relationship, you are able, with confidence and compassion, to bring the Dear Children along the pathway of growth. You help them to grow in trust and confidence in the Father’s love, and help them grow in compassion and care to be a blessing to others and not merely being focused on themselves.
Young People: You are strong, the Word of God is treasured in your hearts, and you have defeated the Evil One. Just as Jesus did, you have engaged the Evil One in hand-to-hand combat and have refused his temptations to make this life all for your own benefit. Jesus responded to each of the Evil One’s temptations with God’s Word in his heart and on his lips; Tempted to use his power for his own needs – He responded, “It is written.” Tempted to use his power to impress, to prove he is God’s Son – He responded, “It is written.” Tempted to yield to the Evil One rather than submit to the Father’s good plan – He responded, “It is written.” This is how you also defeat the Evil One!
Prayer:
Father, As we together progress through the stages and seasons of life, may the Dear Children love and trust you deeply, the Fathers and Mothers be shepherds and nurturers, and the Young People be strong in faith and rich in grace. For Jesus’ sake!