Thursday, October 22, 2026
City of Praise reflectionCourage and spiritual endurance — 1 John 5:1-8
Courage and spiritual endurance
Today’s Scripture: 1 John 5:1-8 (KJV)
- Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him.
- By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments.
- For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.
- For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.
- Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?
- This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth.
- For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.
- And there are three that bear witness in earth, the spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one.
Guided reflection
Read 1 John 5:1-8 slowly, then read the surrounding chapter. Trace the writer’s argument and the needs of the first readers. Connect practical instructions with what the letter teaches about Christ, grace and the life of the church.
Attend especially to 1 John 5:4: “For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.”
Observe: Who is speaking or acting, and what changes across these verses? Identify a word, action or contrast in 1 John 5:1-8 that helps you explain the passage in your own words.
Reflect: What response to difficulty is encouraged here, and what shortcuts does it rule out? Ground your answer in 1 John 5:4 and its surrounding verses. If the connection to this month’s theme is indirect, let the passage’s own meaning lead.
Respond: Face one postponed responsibility prayerfully, without retaliating or giving in to fear. Write one sentence explaining how your response follows from 1 John 5:1-8, and return to it this evening.
Put the Word into practice
Choose one truth from today’s passage. Write down one practical step you can take today, then ask God for grace to follow through.
Today’s prayer
Father, as I consider 1 John 5:4, give me courage joined with humility. Let the truth of this passage correct my assumptions and shape my response today. Help me practise what is faithful to Your Word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Part of our Scripture-led study plan. Read the passage in context and use the prompts for personal reflection.