To my dear friend Gaius, whom I love in the truth. 3 John 1:1
It gave me great joy when some believers came and testified about your faithfulness to the truth, telling how you continue to walk in it. 3 John 1:3
I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will not welcome us. 3 John 1:9
Demetrius is well spoken of by everyone —and even by the truth itself. 3 John 1:12
As I was reading about this book, many spoke about its difference from the previous two: It was written to an individual vs a church/group. Others mentioned how it encourages hospitality to brothers and sisters, even those we don't know.
All of those are valid, but then God hit my heart pretty hard. He asked me the question, "Which of the three am I?" "Well, I know I'm not Diotrephes!" I responded, but there was silence. I then thought about Gaius who is loved by the Elder and who other believers testify of his faithfulness to the truth. I had to admit, that isn't me. My pastor doesn't really know me and I leave immediately after service.
Am I Demetrius? No, I don't have relationships with other believers who would say much of anything about me. My family might say that, but certainly not everyone.
Then I had to think, am I Diotrephes? Please God don't let it be so! However, do I love to be first? Yes. I usually put myself first. Sacrifice isn't something I'm good at. Do I welcome brothers and sisters? Usually, but only if I like them.
Sometimes we need to be hit square in the face to see things clearly and today, God used a 2x4! Thank you Lord for showing me I have so much further to go AND thank you for not giving up on me!
Join me in reading 3 John and be encouraged!
