You Got a Friend

There are times in life in which we need encouragement. In his last letter, John writes to a friend who appears to be struggling through difficult circumstances. In 3 John 1:1-4, John offers his friend a reminder of his affection and appreciation. This passage reminds us that we need to pray for and encourage one another.  Here are a few things we can learn from John's example.

• We need to reach out to those in need. Third John is a letter to John's "dear friend" or "beloved" Gaius. John's friend appeared to be in hot water with Diotrephes, a church leader, because he helped some missionaries. John reaches out to encourage him.

• We need to let others know that we are praying for them to remain strong. John acknowledges Gaius' strength and prays that God would continue to bless him. John wanted the spiritual fruit he witnessed in his friend to fill all of his life.

• We need to rejoice in their faithfulness. John had gotten word that Gaius was remain faithful to sound doctrine and sound living. He believed the truth, and lived it. When we see others holding to the faith and walking in it, we should rejoice also.

• We need to tell them how important they are to us. John says that Gaius' faithfulness is the source of his highest joy. These are words of encouragement. He wants Gaius to know that he sees the importance of what Gaius is doing. 

Implications:

• Pray holistically--pray for the spiritual life, as well as the physical life.
• Pray hopefully--pray for what you would like to see in their life.
• Keep an ear open to hear people praising others.
• Speak the praise of others.
• Rejoice when others are believing and living the truth.
• Live and believe the truth.