We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love abides in death (1 John 3:14, NASB).

The Apostle John has given us a number of “spiritual vital signs” — things that will be present in the life of someone who has been made alive in Christ. When these things are actively present in our lives, they are indicators of spiritual life. We have already mentioned two: 1) a growing sensitivity to sin, and 2) a growing desire to know and obey God’s commandments. 

Now John gives us another spiritual vital sign in chapter 3:14, a love for and commitment to fellow believers in Christ. If you are alive spiritually, there will be a loving devotion to your brothers and sisters in Christ. This love for one another is the evidence of Christ’s love having been poured out into your heart by the Holy Spirit! This love leads you into a life of sacrificial service in word and deed! 

In 1 John 3:10 we read, “By this the children of God and the children of the devil are obvious: anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor the one who does not love his brother.” One of the sources from which we may derive a sense of assurance of eternal life is the presence of God’s love at work in our lives, especially in relation to our brothers and sisters in Christ. The Apostles Paul writes the Colossian believers and says that their hearts have been knit together in love. This is partly why we gather together in fellowship and communion. God’s love for us in Christ binds our hearts together. This too is evidence that you have passed from darkness into light.  

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for pouring Your love out upon our hearts by Your Holy Spirit.  Cause us to love one another, that it might be evident to us and to those who observe our lives, that we have come to know You, and that we have eternal life in Christ.