Qualities of Leadership

Tuesday, April 19th, 2011

Today's Passage: 1 Timothy 3: 1-16
Memory Verse(s): 1 Tim. 3:8-10

The method used to select a leader in pretty much any sector of our society has mostly been a mystery to me until reading today's passage. Now I see that the idea of the qualifications of a leader are clearly spelled out in this passage. I realize that God expects those who are to be considered for leadership to be blameless (above reproach) in all things.

He expects the leaders of His church to first and foremost be morally upright, walking in such a way as to be an example to the body in the way they conduct themselves at home, in the church, and in the community. More than ever before, I am convinced that these are the same principles used even in the secular world to elect and appoint leaders. Before the whole "separation of church and state" debate. It's been an established understanding that biblical principles were the foundation for political leadership as well.

If this were not so, why on earth would everyone get so far up in arms about men in office who are found to be unfaithful to their wives? Why also would people, even those not claiming to be "religious", hesitate to vote for those running for office whose personal lives are questionable? No matter how unstable the moral foundation of our society seems to be becoming, it still holds on to certain basic ideals that are deeply rooted in the Word of God.

Consequently, it is so important for the church of God to recognize that, no matter how times change, He does not. He still expects His leaders to be faithful to one spouse, raise their children to fear Him, and to stand for what is right in spite of this world's fickle ideals. Let us not forget that God, the ultimate Judge, is still holding us to that high standard so that the blood of Jesus would not have been shed in vain. May the true church of God hold forth the light of righteousness and bring God glory until Jesus returns.

Prayer: Father, thank You for godly leaders who refuse to compromise and bow the knee to baal in this age where every moral standard is being compromised. Empower Your children to resist the enemy so that He may flee seven ways, and that Your Name be reverenced in everyrthing we say and do. In Jesus' Name, Amen.