The Influence of Pride

SCRIPTURE
(IIIJohn 9&10) "I wrote something to the church; but Diotrephes, who loves to be first among them, does not accept what we say. For this reason, if I come, I will call attention to his deeds which he does, unjustly accusing us with wicked words; and not satisfied with this, neither does he himself receive the brethren, and he forbids those who desire to do so, and puts them out of the church."

OBSERVATION
Believe it or not, there are those who have self-advancing motivations in the church. If you do not follow their direction you may stand the risk of verbal assault or excommunication. In this case, John says he will expose the deeds and identify the false accusations when he comes to them.


APPLICATION
It is important to weigh the words of a man with the truth of God's Word, and his love for God and the church. When there is a great focus on the leader or significant people within the church, the seeds of pride will begin to flourish. Pride comes before destruction.

PRAYER
God, keep my focus on You. May those who hear my audible words, sense the spiritual realm of Your kingdom.