DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS for: the week leading up to May 22,2011

How would you characterize a quality leader?

What traits should be vital in looking for leaders within a church body?
As Paul writes about the church at work – he offers a look at what should be the qualities of a spiritual leader.
Interestingly enough, these qualities apply to every Christian too.
So, take to heart what is offered here and see how you match up with the qualities given.

Monday — read TITUS 1:5-9 – notice the repetition of “above reproach.”  A leader MUST be someone with integrity and the ability to be trusted.  Reputation and character are vital for those who would lead.

Tuesday – read 1 TIMOTHY 3:1-3 – pay attention to verse 1 and the desire of being a leader.  This is something worth striving toward as we seek to live our lives for the Lord.

Wednesday –-- read 1 TIMOTHY 3:4-7 – as you read through these verses, mentally compare with what Paul wrote to Titus.  All of these traits should be a part of the Christian’s goals for growth.

Thursday – read 1 TIMOTHY 3:8-10 – deacons were the “serving” part of the leadership team.  Do you notice much difference between the requirements for them and elders?  Note, especially, verse 10 and the principle it gives us for all of life.

Friday — read 1 TIMOTHY 3:11-13 – there is some question as to whether these women [v. 11] are the wives of the deacons or a separate ministry group often called deaconess.  Note the honor given for serving well.

Saturday — read 1 PETER 5:1-4 – we recently looked at these verses but notice again how Peter calls himself an elder and what elders are supposed to be like.

Sunday — read TITUS 1:5-9 – in preparation for the sermon today.