Choosing Good Over Evil:
A Story of Integrity and Transformation
Bible Verse:
“Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God.” — 3 John 1:11
Story
Carlos Hernandez grew up in a rough neighborhood in Los Angeles, surrounded by crime and gangs. It seemed inevitable that he would follow in the footsteps of those around him, joining a gang as a teenager and engaging in activities he knew were wrong. As he grew older, he became deeply involved in a life of theft, violence, and drug dealing, believing it was the only way to survive.
One evening, Carlos attended a community gathering at a local church, not out of interest but because a friend had invited him. The speaker that night was a former gang member named Miguel, who shared his powerful testimony. Miguel spoke about the turning point in his life when he came across 3 John 1:11: “Do not imitate what is evil but what is good.” He explained how he realized that his choices were leading him away from God, and he made a commitment to turn his life around by imitating what is good, even when it was difficult.
Carlos couldn’t shake Miguel’s words. The verse haunted him, and he found himself contemplating the path he was on. One night, after a violent encounter that left one of his friends severely injured, Carlos knew he had to change. He remembered the verse: Do not imitate what is evil but what is good. With that, he reached out to Miguel, asking for guidance.
Miguel mentored Carlos, helping him break away from the gang and find work at a local community center. Carlos began volunteering, sharing his story with at-risk youth. The process was not easy; he faced temptations and pressures, but he held onto the truth of the verse, reminding himself to choose what is good. Over time, he became a beacon of hope, using his past experiences to help others make the right choices.
Carlos’s life is now a testimony to the power of imitating good. Today, he helps mentor young people in his community, steering them away from gang violence and showing them that there is a different path—a path blessed by God when we choose good over evil.
Lesson of the Day
Our actions define the path we walk. Choosing to imitate good, even when it seems hard or countercultural, is what sets us apart as God’s children. Following the ways of goodness brings transformation, not just for ourselves but also for those around us. It’s never too late to turn from evil and embrace God’s goodness.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for guiding us to do what is right and good in Your sight. Help us to resist the temptations of evil and instead be examples of Your love and integrity. Give us the strength to walk in goodness and inspire others through our choices. Amen.
Reflection Question
Is there a part of your life where you struggle to choose what is good? How can God’s Word help you make the right choice?
Key Point to Remember
Choosing good over evil, even when it’s difficult, honors God and can inspire change in others around us.