Listen to today’s devo!

Watch out that you do not lose what we have worked for, but that you may be rewarded fully. (2 John 8)

My husband, Trent, sat across from Johnny at an outdoor coffee shop. They had not seen each other in years, and it was good to catch up. Johnny had been in the church when we first moved to that area. God saved him from a rough past, and he grew to be a leader who hosted Bible studies, served on the board, and coordinated evangelistic outreaches for the church.

But Johnny struggled to be content with what he had. He believed he deserved more and longed to provide a better future for his wife and children. He slowly aligned himself with powerful and corrupt people who promised him success and financial security. It was not long before he left the church and Jesus behind. Trent asked Johnny how he was doing spiritually. Johnny shook his head sadly, “I have everything, and yet I have nothing. I have traded my soul for what I have.”

“Watch out!” John said, warning his readers to be on the lookout for deceptive teaching, that which corrupts God’s Word. Believing lies can cause us to compromise our convictions, to lose the growth we have gained, and ultimately to miss out on the fullness of what Christ has promised.

What are you allowing to influence you? What longings are being stirred in your heart? Do they match God’s desires for you to trust and love? Don’t lose the progress you have made in Christ!

Decide what you will start, stop, or change to guard your reward.

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®.