3 John 7 KJV
[7] “Because that for his name’s sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles.”
We could say many things about our topic in today’s devotional, but our verse gives us one thing in particular. The preachers who passed through the home of Gaius greatly enjoyed his fellowship and hospitality. He had refreshed them on their journey and encouraged them to keep traveling.
He witnessed firsthand what the life of a preacher is all about. It is a life of living by faith. Now, while this is true for all believers, we must keep in mind that our verse is dealing primarily with how daily provisions are being met. These brethren had abandoned any attachments to monetary income for his name’s sake. They were not looking to a gentile world to supply their daily needs, but were busy preaching the gospel and trusting God to supply. Gaius understood their commitment to the cause of Christ, and he was being used by God to help preachers.
I’ve had the privilege of spending time with preachers in my travels. I have seen a lot, having been in their homes and preached in their churches. Some preachers have been well taken care of by their church, and others have struggled greatly. I understand a lot can be factored in on both sides, as to why or why not. However, the bottom line is when men forsake careers and good job opportunities to faithfully preach the Word they should be cared for by the congregation. My philosophy is that you can never be too good to the man of God, and he will never get rich serving the Lord. As preachers, we are not to worry about our financial future, or to be greedy of gain. The life of a preacher is knowing that God signs your paycheck, but you never know who he may use to deliver it to you. When the offering plate is passed for a missionary or evangelist, remember they are not seeking the world to aid them, they are living by faith.