God's Word For Today

Daily Devotional

Living in Obscurity

Read Amos 3:1 through 4:13; 3 John 1–14

Attending a luncheon, the mayor was late so he got only a single piece of chicken. He asked for more, but the server refused. The mayor responded. “Do you know who I am? I’m the mayor, and I’m in charge of the city!” The woman scoffed. “Do you know who I am? I’m the one in charge of the chicken!”

That mayor was a bully, just like Diotrephes, the influential but arrogant church leader John described in his letter. In contrast, John commended Gaius and Demetrius for their faith and service to God.

Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God

(3 John 11). 

Diotrephes wanted to be recognized as influential, while Gaius and Demetrius had no such ambitions. Yet it was Gaius and Demetrius whom John commended in eternal Scripture. 

We sometimes envy influential Christians since we probably consider ourselves as being unknown. Whether influential or obscure, we know that God loves us equally.

Prayer Suggestion: Lord, help me remember that I am never unknown to You.

Quicklook 3 John 3–12