SATURDAY, 11 FEBRUARY 2023
TEXT:
1 Timothy 3:7-9
7.
Furthermore, he must have a good reputation among outsiders, so that he does
not fall into disgrace and the Devil’s trap.
8.
Deacons, likewise, should be worthy of respect, not hypocritical, not drinking
a lot of wine, not greedy for money,
9.
holding the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience.
(Holmans CS Holy Bible)
TOPIC:
OCCUPYING IN YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY
In
context, our text for today’s devotion is about qualifications for leaders in
the church. The entire chapter states the character and charisma expected of
those who set their hearts on being overseers. By implications, however, there
is no character trait that is required of a church leader that is not equally
required of other believers.
Our
attention is drawn to the idea of having a good reputation with outsiders as
church leaders, and believers generally by implication. We are challenged to
have a good reputation in our given communities as believers. We are to occupy
such space in our community in order to give credence to the gospel and draw
people to Christ.
Unfortunately,
some believers have no good record in their communities. They do not
participate in community development efforts in any way. They do not contribute
towards the upkeep of the vigilantes in the community. They do not visit
neighbors. Their community life is confined to the limits of their high-walled
fences. This attitude does not market the gospel well! No wonder when reference
is made to you, the community only knows you by the height of your fence and
the color of your gate. Step out of your gate for once and commune with your
community!
QUESTION:
How well do you know your community? How well does your community know you?
PRAYER:
Dear Jesus, You left your community in heaven to reach out to me on earth. Help
me to also reach out to others around me. Amen.
Remain
Blessed
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