Qualifications And Standards

Scripture: 1 Here’s another statement you may trust: if anyone is seeking a position as overseer in the church, he desires an honorable and important work. 2 Here are the qualifications to look for in an overseer: a spotless reputation, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, sensible, respectable, welcoming to strangers (allowing them into his home) , and gifted to teach. 3 Disqualify any drunk or violent man. Look for a gentle man; no belligerent fellow can follow this calling. And he should be free from money lust. 4 He should exert good control over his own household, and his children should obey and honor him. 5 (If someone can’t manage his own household, then how can he take care of God’s family?) 6 He mustn’t be someone recently converted; otherwise, he may become arrogant and fall into the devil’s condemnation. 7 He should also be respected for his character and known as an honorable person by people outside of the church so as to avoid the trips, traps, and devil. (1 Timothy 3:1-7 The Voice) Paul lists these qualifications as he writes to Timothy for those who desire to be leaders in the church. They outline some character qualities that are so important in someone that is to lead; to show the way to others. Then he goes on to talk about standards for those who are deacons as well, and even for women. I am privileged to be married to a man for almost fifty-four years who is a man of character with this qualifications lived out in his life. Father, I do thank You for my husband, for who he is as a role model to many. When I look at the standards for women as well, help me to more and more be what I can, and should be. AMEN I will always trust in Your unfailing love, and rejoice as You help me. I will sing to You, Lord, because You have been so good to me. Psalm 13
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