God’s Truth for Trying Times - 11/29/21

We need God’s truth in trying times. Read the Scripture passage, think about what it is saying, then pray; by yourself or with your household. Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly (Col. 3:16).

READ: 1 Timothy 3:2-3

Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. [1 Timothy 3:2-3 ESV] 

CONSIDER: These character traits and qualifications are for men whom God has chosen to be shepherds of his flock in a local congregation. They are to be a part of a plurality of elders where they shepherd the flock together. They are to be the kind of men that others can emulate. God does not expect them to be perfect, but humble and dependent, being made more like Christ. They must not give any cause for the gospel to be maligned or God to be blasphemed.

THINK: What does this declare about God? What are God’s people being called to do? What assurance is given? How does the Word of God transform our hearts and lives and relationships?

PRAY: Pray these verses to God as a prayer. Pour out your heart in praise to God. Pray for others. Present needs to Him.