1 JOHN 5:11–12

“And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.”

To Ponder

Reflecting on these verses I began to wonder whether we live as though this life is all there is. We easily forget who we are and seek to find meaning by what we achieve, what we have, or what we experience. But the Lord reminds us through John that life, in its truest sense, does not start or end with earthly moments. Eternal life is a present reality for all who belong to Jesus. It is not simply unending existence; it is a quality of life built on our relationship with Jesus—one that begins now as his presence transforms how we see ourselves, others, and the world around us.

To “have the Son” means to live each day connected to the one who conquered death. It means drawing our purpose, identity, and hope from him. When we live with eternity in view, our values begin to change. Temporary achievements take their proper place, and the love and grace of Jesus become what truly matter.

So today, I encourage you to remember you already hold eternal life—not because of what you have done, but because of who you belong to. Let that truth reshape how you face each moment. Live not for what fades away, but for what endures.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank you for giving me eternal life in you. Teach me to live every day with eternity in mind—seeking what lasts and loving others as you love me. Amen.

Today’s Devotion is written by Pr Nich Kitchen, LifeWay Epping