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9 I have written something to the church, but Diotrephes, who likes to put himself first, does not acknowledge our authority. 10 So if I come, I will call attention to what he is doing in spreading false charges against us. And not content with those charges, he refuses to welcome the friends and even prevents those who want to do so and expels them from the church.

11 Beloved, do not imitate what is evil but imitate what is good. Whoever does good is from God; whoever does evil has not seen God. 12 Everyone has testified favorably about Demetrius, and so has the truth itself. We also testify for him, and you know that our testimony is true.

 

The Biblical sources that I consulted show Diotrephes to be very self-centered, unwelcoming to other new believers, and quite ambitious. Gaius, to whom the letter is written, is encouraged to do good not evil. Demetrius is the messenger the exact opposite of Diotrephes and he is the bearer of good news, especially from John.

 

We are encouraged to avoid people in our lives who are like Diotrephes and many of us have known those kind of people at our careers, neighbors or even family members who always seem to want credit for work shared or take advantage of a variety of situations. We are to choose good works and be truthful in our words and deeds. Although sometimes it takes longer as we see others advance in their careers and smooth talk their way around problems, in the long run, being truthful and good in all situations is the most gratifying. How often the words of my mother ring in my ears, “always take the high road and do what you know is the right, no matter what everyone else is doing.” Another way to think is to always do the right thing even when nobody else is watching.

 

Let. Us pray-Dear Lord, Please continue to lead me when I am tempted to do the wrong things for the wrong reasons. Show me the way to be a better follower of you. Amen

 

Cindy Dougherty

beachspch@aol.com

 

Prayer concern- Remember those who are in prison and their victims. Please

pray that these prisoners see the light and the victims may recover from the transgressors.

 

Alternative verses-Judges 17:1-8, Psalm 96;1-9