BACKGROUND
The priests were representatives of God's holiness. Therefore, they were held to a higher standard than others in Israel. They had greater restrictions on their conduct and a greater amount of responsibility. They were to be free from defilement or defects much like the animals used in sacrifices.
REFLECTION
As I was meditating on this chapter my mind immediately went to the standards that God sets for overseers (elders) and deacons of the New Testament church in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. God has very high standards for those who shepherd and care for their flock!
Since I wrote this back in 2008, my husband served as an elder for three years. I love the high standards that this group of men maintains for each other. They email weekly accountability sheets to each other covering areas of holiness and godliness. This is so healthy!
2023 Update: After an eight-year hiatus, he is an elder again, and they still maintain really high standards. Sadly, there was not as much accountability with our staff, and there was a moral failure with one of them. Now, there is accountability for the staff also.
APPLICATION
Take some time to pray for the elders, pastors, and leaders in your church today. Pray through each of the character qualities in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. Pray them into your own life as well.
PRAYER
Lord, we ask that You raise up leaders in our churches who are totally consecrated to You and can prove to be examples to their flocks. We ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.
APPLICATION
Take some time to pray for the elders, pastors, and leaders in your church today. Pray through each of the character qualities in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. Pray them into your own life as well.
PRAYER
Lord, we ask that You raise up leaders in our churches who are totally consecrated to You and can prove to be examples to their flocks. We ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.
1 comment:
I have not been really faithful to pray for our staff and elders! I am going to do that right. Praying for each by name!
Post a Comment