1 Timothy 3:1–7 (ESV) — 1 The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the
office of overseer, he desires a noble task. 2 Therefore an
overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded,
self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, 3 not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover
of money. 4 He must manage his own household well, with all
dignity keeping his children submissive, 5 for if someone does
not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church? 6 He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with
conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. 7 Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not
fall into disgrace, into a snare of the devil.
NOTE: The overseer
is an elder or a pastor in most elder-led churches. The requirements are very
high. And this is a very important position for order in the church. The wrong
men leading spiritually can destroy a church. I have been an elder in three different
churches and I have always been amazed at the spiritual strength of these men.
These men are spiritual men and they are recognized by a deep and abiding love
for Jesus. They are not religious men who say all the religious things or pray
like religious men do. These men pray like they know their savior, not for a
show. These men are humble. These men hurt for other people. These men are men
of God who are gentle, loving, and hold to the truth. They are respected even
by outsiders.
PRAYER: Father, I
miss the fellowship of elders. Those were special times and special memories.
Thank you for the Pastors in our church. They do exhibit the qualities of
elders. They are good men who love you deeply. Thank you for David, Brian,
Scott, and Charles. They love and care for others. They show humility and deep
respect for you. Their walk with you never comes across as religious but as
real and deep. Thank you Lord for our leaders.
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