It has given me great joy to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as the Father commanded us. (2 John 4)
When my children were elementary age, they walked to and from school each day with a group of friends. As they would leave the safety of our home and values, I would ask them two questions, “Who are you? Whose are you?” They would reply by shouting their names and saying they were God’s. I would call after them, “That’s right! Live for him today!” This daily ritual was a reminder to our family that our identity as children of God meant we lived differently from the world around us.
John’s letter reflects his deep desire to see God’s children walking in the truth. He rejoiced over the signs of commitment he saw. He reminded his readers that they were set apart to love. He warned of the dangers of deceptive teachings. Why did he do this? He wanted them to share in the joy of both walking with God and helping others to do the same. We see in 2 John a picture of the church as the family of God, encouraging each other to live in love and truth.
Following the Father’s commands can often put us at odds with the values of the world. We need to spur each other on and keep growing to include others. Seeing more people live as children of God multiplies joy!
Encourage others to walk in the truth and love of Christ.
Nikki Nettleton is the director of learning and leadership for Global Partners. She draws from fifteen years of experience in Eastern Europe.
© 2021 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
