1 Timothy 3

1Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task. 2Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, 3not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. 4He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full^a respect. 5(If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?) 6He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil. 7He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s trap.

8In the same way, deacons^b are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. 9They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. 10They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. (1 Timothy 3)

Thoughts: The standards for elders and deacons recorded in scripture not only tells us what important standards were then, but what our standards should be as well.  The standards for leaders are understandably a bit higher than the lay person.  Yet these leadership positions are a noble task.  The elder and deacon were called to be faithful, holy and loving people.  The church was to make sure each person was worthy of the office before they could serve.  

Prayer: Lord, let me walk in your path.  As a leader, help me to set a shining example for your glory.