No Greater Joy

Writing toward the end of his life, John reflected on the people with whom he had shared the Gospel. They were dear to him, and he thought of them as “my children.”

He wanted these, his spiritual protégés, to “prosper and be in good health” (v. 2). He knew the power of the Gospel and how following Jesus could change their lives. And he knew that Believers needed to act faithfully and show love for one another.

But John also knew that some had rejected this guidance. He spoke of Diotrephes “who loves to be first among them, does not accept what we say.” This man had spread “wicked words.” In contrast, Demetrius had “received a good testimony from everyone.”

John reminded his readers that they were not to “imitate what is evil, but what is good,” and that “the one who does good is of God; the one who does evil has not seen God.”

Clearly, John was concerned with character and fruitfulness. His greatest joy was “to hear of my children walking in the truth.” It wasn’t enough just to hear the Word or know Biblical principles. What was most important was demonstrating real change through their lives.

The Bible tells us that “faith without works is useless” and that we prove our faith through the things we do (James 2:17-20). Stressing these principles, Jesus declared, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). He urged followers to ask themselves, “Why do you call Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?” (Luke 6:46)

In your life, remember the importance of putting God’s Word into practice, not only today but in the year to come. Ask God to help you to be a “doer” of the Word, living in such a way that others can see the difference He makes in your life.