Summary of the Third Epistle of John
Author: The Apostle John
Recipient: Gaius, a beloved member of the early church
Purpose: To commend faithfulness, confront pride, and encourage support for gospel workers
The Third Epistle of John is the shortest book in the New Testament, yet it carries profound lessons about Christian character, leadership, and fellowship. Written by the Apostle John, the letter is deeply personal and pastoral.
Key Themes:
1. Walking in the Truth
John opens with warm affection for Gaius, praising him for his spiritual integrity: “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth” (3 John 1:4). Gaius is a model of what it means to not only believe the truth but to live it out in love and service.
2. Hospitality and Gospel Partnership
Gaius is commended for his generosity toward traveling missionaries. John highlights that supporting such workers is not just kindness—it’s a way of becoming “fellowhelpers to the truth” (3 John 1:8). This shows the importance of investing in Kingdom work through support, hospitality, and encouragement.
3. Warning Against Spiritual Pride
John warns of Diotrephes, a man who “loveth to have the preeminence” (3 John 1:9). Diotrephes rejected apostolic authority, slandered godly leaders, and excommunicated those who showed hospitality. His actions reveal the destructive nature of pride and control within the church.
4. Imitating What Is Good
Believers are urged to imitate good, not evil: “He that doeth good is of God” (3 John 1:11). John contrasts Diotrephes with Demetrius, a man with a good reputation and a life that aligned with the truth. This reminds us that our conduct and example deeply matter.
5. The Joy of Christian Fellowship
John expresses his desire to visit Gaius and speak “face to face” (3 John 1:14), underscoring the richness of in-person fellowship. He ends with a blessing of peace and personal greetings—showing that in the family of God, every individual matters.
Conclusion:
The Third Epistle of John is a powerful call to integrity, humility, and love within the church. It teaches us to:
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Walk in the truth daily
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Support those who labor for the gospel
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Reject prideful and divisive behavior
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Imitate godly examples
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Cherish real, personal fellowship
In a time when self-promotion and division can easily infiltrate the Church, this short letter reminds us that faithfulness, love, and truth still matter most.
Prayer
Abba Father, in the name of Jesus, thank You for the wisdom and truth found in the Third Epistle of John. We praise You for the example of Gaius—his faithfulness, his love, and his walk in truth. Help us, Lord, to follow in his footsteps: to be known not just for what we believe, but for how we live out that belief in love and service.
Protect us from the spirit of Diotrephes—from pride, division, and self-exaltation. Teach us to humble ourselves, submit to Your truth, and serve others with sincere hearts. Let us be like Demetrius, whose reputation bore witness to Your Word. May our lives reflect Your light in all things.
Strengthen us to support those who labor for the gospel. Make us faithful fellowhelpers to the truth, generous in love, and bold in faith. As Your Word declares, “Let all your things be done with charity” (1 Corinthians 16:14). Fill us with Your peace and knit us together in true fellowship, until we see each other face to face in the fullness of Your kingdom.
In the almighty name of Jesus, Amen.
Loving in the Truth – A Lesson from 3 John 1:1
“The elder unto the wellbeloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth.” – 3 John 1:1 (KJV)
In a world driven by fleeting feelings and conditional connections, the Apostle John offers us a glimpse into a higher form of love—one rooted in truth. His opening words in the Third Epistle of John reveal a profound relationship with a man named Gaius, not based on personal gain or social obligation, but on the unshakable foundation of the truth found in Christ.
Love Anchored in Truth
John’s love for Gaius wasn’t shallow or sentimental—it was “in the truth.” This kind of love is unwavering because it’s not rooted in changing circumstances but in the eternal and unchanging Word of God. Truth-based love isn’t about agreeing on every preference, but about being united in Jesus Christ, who is “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6).
The Elder's Example
By calling himself “the elder,” John models humility. Though an apostle and eyewitness to Christ, he chooses a title that reflects spiritual maturity rather than status. His relationship with Gaius teaches us that godly leadership doesn’t lord authority over others—it encourages, edifies, and loves in truth.
Who Is Your Gaius?
We all need people in our lives like Gaius—those who walk in truth and refresh our spirits. And we should strive to be that kind of person to others. Are we nurturing relationships grounded in biblical truth? Do we show love to fellow believers, not based on what they can do for us, but because we’re united in Christ?
Walking in the Truth Together
The rest of the epistle shows Gaius as someone who lived out his faith by showing hospitality and supporting those who spread the gospel. His love wasn’t passive—it was proven by action (James 2:17). Today, we are called to do the same: to stand in the truth, to love in the truth, and to serve the truth.
Closing Prayer
Abba Father, in the name of Jesus, thank You for the example of Gaius and the heart of the Apostle John. Teach us to love one another in the truth, not with empty words, but with a heart grounded in Your Word. Let our relationships reflect Your light and point others to Your glory. As Your Word declares, “Let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth” (1 John 3:18). Strengthen us to walk in truth and be faithful stewards of Your love. In the almighty name of Jesus, Amen.
Prospering as Your Soul Prospers – A Biblical Balance
“Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” – 3 John 1:2 (KJV)
This verse is one of the most quoted Scriptures in Christian circles regarding health and prosperity—but often misunderstood or misapplied. At its core, John’s greeting to Gaius reveals a heart for holistic well-being: physical, financial, and most importantly, spiritual.
A Soul-First Kind of Prosperity
Notice the priority in John’s words: “even as thy soul prospereth.” This tells us that true prosperity begins in the soul. It’s not about chasing wealth or perfect health at the expense of spiritual growth. Instead, our outward life should reflect the inward transformation taking place through our relationship with Christ.
Jesus Himself affirmed this principle: “For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” (Matthew 16:26). Soul prosperity—marked by intimacy with God, integrity, peace, and truth—is the foundation upon which all other blessings stand.
Health and Wealth: Not a Guarantee, but a Gift
John’s prayer for Gaius to “be in health” and “prosper” isn’t a blanket promise that every believer will always be rich and healthy. It’s a godly desire for well-being rooted in a life aligned with God’s truth. Scripture doesn’t condemn wealth or health; it condemns idolatry and selfish ambition (1 Timothy 6:10, James 4:3).
We must remember Paul’s words: “I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content” (Philippians 4:11). Whether in abundance or need, the soul that prospers in Christ is the one truly rich.
Living a Balanced Life
Gaius’s soul was prospering—John knew it by his walk in truth and his faithful service to others (verse 3). That’s the kind of life we’re called to live: not chasing blessings, but being faithful stewards of what God gives us, while trusting Him for provision and strength.
Closing Prayer
Abba Father, in the name of Jesus, thank You for the reminder that true prosperity begins in our soul. Teach us to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and trust You for all our needs. Help us to prosper in Your truth and reflect Your goodness in every area of our lives. As Your Word says, “But godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Timothy 6:6). We rest in Your promises and walk in Your truth. In the almighty name of Jesus, Amen.
Joy in the Truth – A Shepherd’s Delight
“For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth.” – 3 John 1:3 (KJV)
In this verse, the Apostle John expresses overflowing joy—not because of Gaius's talents, influence, or popularity, but because of his consistent walk in the truth. Gaius wasn’t just a believer in the truth; he lived it, and others noticed.
A Testimony Worth Sharing
John received reports from fellow believers about Gaius’s integrity and faithfulness. This reveals a vital principle: a godly life leaves a trail that others can testify to. Gaius’s life was so marked by truth that it became his testimony.
Jesus said, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:35). Gaius embodied this, and his reputation brought joy to John—not superficial happiness, but deep spiritual joy.
Walking in Truth
Truth in Scripture isn’t just about holding correct beliefs; it’s about living out God’s Word. Gaius “walked in the truth,” which means his actions matched his confession. He lived with integrity, love, and fidelity to God’s commands. This is the walk we’re called to imitate: one that reflects God’s character in both word and deed.
James reminds us, “Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves” (James 1:22). A life anchored in truth doesn’t merely listen to the Word—it walks it out daily.
Bringing Joy to Spiritual Leaders
Faithful believers like Gaius encourage the hearts of pastors, mentors, and spiritual leaders. John’s joy shows how much it blesses those who labor in the gospel to see others growing in maturity and obedience. Your walk can be a source of encouragement to others—especially those who’ve prayed for you, taught you, and poured into your spiritual life.
Closing Prayer
Abba Father, in the name of Jesus, thank You for the testimony of Gaius and the joy it brought to John. May our lives be marked by truth—faith not just spoken, but lived. Help us to walk in the truth and bring glory to Your name through our obedience and love. As Your Word declares, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth” (3 John 1:4). May we bring joy to Your heart and to those who shepherd us. In the almighty name of Jesus, Amen.
No Greater Joy – A Father’s Heart for His Children
“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.” – 3 John 1:4 (KJV)
This verse captures the tender heart of the Apostle John, not just as a leader but as a spiritual father. It speaks volumes about what truly matters in Christian life—not achievements, not popularity, not material success, but faithfulness to the truth of God’s Word.
A Father's Joy
John’s words reflect the same kind of joy any parent or mentor feels when their children follow the right path. But this isn’t just about biological children—it’s about spiritual children: those we disciple, mentor, and walk with in faith.
The apostle Paul carried the same heart when he wrote, “My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you” (Galatians 4:19). The ultimate goal of spiritual leadership isn’t control or admiration—it’s transformation through truth.
Walking in the Truth
To “walk in truth” means to live in alignment with God’s Word. It’s not enough to simply know the truth—we must apply it, embody it, and let it shape our decisions and character. When we walk in truth, we don’t just honor God—we also encourage and bless those who’ve invested in our spiritual growth.
Your Walk Matters
You may not realize it, but your obedience to God encourages someone else. Your faithfulness might be the very thing that keeps your pastor praying, your mentor inspired, or your children watching and learning. A life lived in truth creates ripple effects beyond what we see.
Psalm 1:1–2 gives us the blueprint: “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly... but his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.” When we delight in God’s Word, our walk reflects His glory.
Closing Prayer
Abba Father, in the name of Jesus, thank You for the joy that comes when we walk in truth. Help us to be faithful stewards of the truth we’ve received. Strengthen our walk so that we may be a source of joy to You and to those who have poured into us spiritually. As Your Word says, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path” (Psalm 119:105). Guide our steps each day to honor You. In the almighty name of Jesus, Amen.
Faithful in What You Do – Serving the Brethren with Love
“Beloved, thou doest faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the brethren, and to strangers;” – 3 John 1:5 (KJV)
This short verse speaks volumes about the heart of Christian service. The Apostle John commends Gaius not for grand miracles or eloquent sermons, but for his faithfulness in serving both fellow believers and strangers alike. It's a quiet, humble kind of faithfulness—yet one that Heaven notices.
Faithfulness Over Fame
In a world obsessed with visibility and recognition, God values faithfulness. Gaius wasn’t just doing “acts of service”—he was doing them faithfully. Whether the recipients were familiar brethren or unknown strangers, he served with the same integrity and heart.
Jesus taught us the value of this in Luke 16:10: “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.” Kingdom greatness isn’t measured by platform or prestige, but by a consistent, humble heart of service.
Hospitality as Ministry
In the early Church, hospitality wasn’t just cultural—it was critical. Traveling missionaries and teachers depended on believers like Gaius to provide shelter and support. By receiving them, Gaius was advancing the gospel. Hebrews 13:2 echoes this: “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.”
Today, we too are called to welcome and serve others, not for applause but for Christ. Every act of kindness, every shared meal, every moment spent in service to others is a reflection of God’s love.
Known by Your Deeds
Gaius’s faithful service was known to others—and ultimately to John. Your service doesn’t go unnoticed either. Whether it’s caring for someone in need, supporting ministry, or simply being present in someone’s life, your faithfulness is a testimony to the truth within you.
Closing Prayer
Abba Father, in the name of Jesus, thank You for the example of Gaius and his faithful service to others. Help us to serve not for recognition, but out of love for You and others. Let us be found faithful in all we do, reflecting Your heart in every act of kindness. As Your Word declares, “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men” (Colossians 3:23). May our service be pleasing in Your sight. In the almighty name of Jesus, Amen.
A Witness of Love – Honoring God Through Hospitality
“Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church: whom if thou bring forward on their journey after a godly sort, thou shalt do well:” – 3 John 1:6 (KJV)
This verse continues John’s commendation of Gaius, emphasizing how his love and generosity weren’t just felt—they were seen and testified to by others. His hospitality wasn’t done in secret; it had a public witness, and it brought glory to God.
Love with a Reputation
The brethren who received Gaius’s kindness didn’t keep it to themselves—they “borne witness” before the church. His charity wasn’t a one-time act, but a pattern of godliness that encouraged others and edified the body of Christ.
This aligns with Matthew 5:16, where Jesus said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Gaius’s acts of love were a living testimony to the transforming power of the gospel.
Supporting the Mission
John speaks of helping these brethren “on their journey” in “a godly sort.” This implies more than just food or shelter—it’s about sending them off with dignity, prayer, encouragement, and material support as they continued their work for the Lord.
This mirrors the biblical principle of supporting those in ministry. Paul wrote in Romans 10:15, “And how shall they preach, except they be sent?” The senders share in the eternal fruit of the laborers they support.
Doing Well in God’s Eyes
John assures Gaius that by doing this, he’s “doing well.” In the eyes of God, hospitality and partnership in the gospel are not minor things—they’re vital acts of obedience. When we care for and support those laboring in ministry, we participate in the work of the gospel.
Closing Prayer
Abba Father, in the name of Jesus, thank You for showing us through Gaius how powerful love in action can be. Help us to be known for our charity, not for our name, but for Your glory. Teach us to support and encourage those who carry Your Word, and let our homes and lives be open to serving You and Your people. As Your Word declares, “Use hospitality one to another without grudging” (1 Peter 4:9). May we do well by walking in this grace. In the almighty name of Jesus, Amen.
For His Name’s Sake – A Call to Selfless Support
“Because that for his name's sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles.” – 3 John 1:7 (KJV)
This verse highlights the pure motivation behind the missionaries Gaius supported. They went out “for His name’s sake”—not for personal gain, popularity, or profit, but to exalt the name of Jesus. Their commitment to the mission of the gospel is a powerful reminder of what true ministry looks like.
Motivation Matters
Serving “for His name’s sake” means everything we do is for the glory and honor of Christ. The early church understood that ministry was not a means to wealth or comfort but a calling to carry the name of Jesus into the world.
Jesus Himself warned against self-serving motives: “Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them” (Matthew 6:1, ESV). God is not impressed by public displays if the heart is not pure. These servants went forth with sincerity, seeking only to make Jesus known.
Depending on the Church, Not the World
These laborers “took nothing of the Gentiles,” meaning they did not rely on unbelievers for support. Instead, they trusted God to provide through His people. This principle reinforces the responsibility of the Church to care for those spreading the gospel.
Paul emphasized this in Galatians 6:6: “Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.” Ministry should be fueled by faith and sustained by the love and generosity of the body of Christ.
A Challenge to the Modern Church
Today, many missionaries and ministers still depend on faithful believers for support. Just like Gaius, we have the opportunity to partner in spreading the gospel—not by going ourselves, but by sending, praying, and giving.
Your faithfulness can help sustain someone who is laboring for the name of Jesus. When we give for His name’s sake, we’re not just supporting a person—we’re investing in eternity.
Closing Prayer
Abba Father, in the name of Jesus, thank You for the example of those who go out for Your name’s sake. Stir our hearts to be faithful supporters of the gospel, not out of duty, but out of love for You. Let our giving, praying, and serving be driven by a passion to see Your name lifted high. As Your Word says, “Let all that you do be done in love” (1 Corinthians 16:14). May we be found faithful in partnering with You. In the almighty name of Jesus, Amen.
Fellowhelpers to the Truth – The Power of Partnership
“We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth.” – 3 John 1:8 (KJV)
This verse is a call to action—a challenge to every believer to become a fellowhelper to the truth. The Apostle John urges the Church to receive and support gospel workers, not just as a good deed, but as a direct way to partner in the work of God.
Joining the Mission
“Fellowhelpers” means co-laborers. You don’t have to stand behind a pulpit or travel to distant nations to be a missionary. When you support those who do—through giving, hospitality, encouragement, or prayer—you become a vital part of their mission.
Philippians 1:5 speaks to this beautifully: “For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now.” The gospel is not a solo endeavor. It’s a body-wide effort that thrives through collaboration and mutual sacrifice.
Receive the Worthy
John says, “we ought to receive such,” referring to the faithful workers who have gone out for Jesus’ name. To receive someone means more than simply acknowledging them—it means welcoming, honoring, and supporting them as fellow servants of Christ.
Romans 12:13 reminds us to “contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.” Supporting kingdom work isn't optional—it's an essential expression of our discipleship and unity.
Helping Truth Advance
In a world where lies and deception run rampant, helping the truth go forward is urgent. Whether you’re funding a missionary trip, feeding a local pastor, or praying for an evangelist—you are pushing back darkness and spreading light.
Closing Prayer
Abba Father, in the name of Jesus, thank You for inviting us to be fellowhelpers to the truth. Give us hearts that are open, hands that are generous, and faith that is willing to partner with You in every way. Let us not grow weary in well doing, but remember that every seed sown in love will bear eternal fruit. As Your Word says, “The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few” (Matthew 9:37). Make us faithful supporters of Your laborers. In the almighty name of Jesus, Amen.
Pride in the Pulpit – The Spirit of Diotrephes
“I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not.” – 3 John 1:9 (KJV)
This verse introduces a sharp contrast to Gaius. While Gaius is praised for his humility and hospitality, Diotrephes is rebuked for his pride and self-promotion. John exposes a dangerous spirit that still plagues churches today—one that seeks control and recognition instead of submission to Christ.
The Spirit of Preeminence
Diotrephes “loveth to have the preeminence.” He wanted to be first—not Christ. This is the very opposite of the spirit of Christ, who “made himself of no reputation” (Philippians 2:7). In desiring to be above others, Diotrephes was undermining the unity and humility that the gospel demands.
Jesus taught in Matthew 23:11–12, “But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased.” Leadership in God’s kingdom is marked by service, not self-exaltation.
Rejecting Apostolic Authority
John says Diotrephes “receiveth us not”—meaning he rejected even the authority of the apostles. This wasn’t a minor disagreement; it was rebellion against divinely appointed leadership and truth. Pride always leads to division, resistance to correction, and a closed heart toward godly counsel.
A Warning for Today
We must guard our hearts and churches from the Diotrephes spirit. It can show up in leaders who refuse accountability, believers who stir up division, or anyone who seeks to be seen rather than to serve. The Church is not a stage—it’s a body where Christ alone must have preeminence (Colossians 1:18).
Closing Prayer
Abba Father, in the name of Jesus, we ask for discernment and humility to guard our hearts from pride and selfish ambition. Help us to walk in the spirit of Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve. Remove any Diotrephes-like spirit from among us, and raise up leaders and believers who love truth, honor authority, and reflect Your humility. As Your Word says, “God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble” (James 4:6). Keep us faithful and lowly before You. In the almighty name of Jesus, Amen.
Confronting Evil – The Courage to Stand for Truth
“Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth, prating against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth them out of the church.” – 3 John 1:10 (KJV)
John doesn’t mince words. In this verse, he exposes the toxic actions of Diotrephes: slander, pride, exclusion, and abuse of church authority. This isn't just a personal conflict—it's a spiritual crisis. And John, as a loving but firm elder, declares his intention to deal with it.
Malicious Words and Divisive Leadership
Diotrephes didn’t just oppose the apostles privately—he “prated against us with malicious words.” This means he spread slander and gossip to damage reputations and secure his own authority. This is the opposite of Christlike leadership.
Proverbs 6:16–19 lists six things the Lord hates—one of them is “he that soweth discord among brethren.” Slander in the church doesn’t just hurt feelings; it grieves the Holy Spirit and undermines the mission of the gospel.
Abuse of Influence
Diotrephes went further: he refused to receive traveling ministers and even expelled others who tried to do so. He weaponized his position to control the congregation, shutting out godly influence to protect his own power. This is spiritual abuse.
Jesus warned against this in John 10:12–13, describing false shepherds who abandon or harm the flock. The church must be a place of grace, truth, and welcome—not fear, manipulation, or censorship.
The Courage to Confront
John’s response is not avoidance but accountability: “I will remember his deeds.” This isn’t about vengeance but about upholding truth and protecting the body of Christ. Sometimes, love requires confrontation—especially when the integrity of the church is at stake.
Closing Prayer
Abba Father, in the name of Jesus, give us the courage to stand for truth and confront evil when necessary. Protect Your Church from prideful, controlling spirits and raise up leaders who walk in humility, wisdom, and love. Help us to be discerning, bold, and faithful stewards of Your truth. As Your Word says, “Open rebuke is better than secret love” (Proverbs 27:5). May we always choose Your righteousness over human approval. In the almighty name of Jesus, Amen.
Follow What Is Good – A Call to Godly Imitation
“Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.” – 3 John 1:11 (KJV)
After addressing the destructive behavior of Diotrephes, John turns to Gaius—and to us—with a gentle but powerful exhortation: “Follow not that which is evil.” This isn’t just a moral suggestion; it’s a command to choose our influences and examples wisely.
Imitation Matters
The word “follow” in Greek (μιμέομαι, mimeomai) means to imitate. John is saying, Don’t copy evil behavior—imitate what is good. Our character is shaped by what and who we imitate. That’s why Paul urged the Corinthians, “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1).
Who you follow will shape your walk with Christ. If we follow prideful, divisive, or worldly examples—even within the church—we risk straying from God’s truth. But if we follow those who walk in righteousness, humility, and love, we reflect the nature of God.
The Fruit Reveals the Root
John makes a sharp distinction: “He that doeth good is of God.” Doing good isn’t what saves us, but it’s evidence of salvation. A life marked by goodness, integrity, and love shows that one is walking with the Lord. In contrast, persistent evil behavior reveals a deeper issue: “hath not seen God.”
Jesus said in Matthew 7:20, “Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.” Our actions matter. They testify to the reality—or the absence—of a relationship with God.
Choose to Be a Godly Example
John isn’t just telling us to watch others—he’s telling us to be the example. The Church needs men and women who model what is good: faithfulness, humility, generosity, and truth. Be the person someone else can safely imitate, because your life points them to Christ.
Closing Prayer
Abba Father, in the name of Jesus, help us to follow what is good and reject what is evil. Give us discernment to know the difference, and strength to walk in righteousness. Let our lives be reflections of Your holiness, and may our actions always testify that we have seen You and walk with You. As Your Word says, “Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good” (Romans 12:9). Make us examples of godly living in a dark world. In the almighty name of Jesus, Amen.
