Titus 1:5-9; Psalm 119:17-24

Titus 1:5-9
Paul had left Titus on the island of Crete to complete the work they had begun there and to appoint elders (pastors) in each town. He then went on to give the qualifications for an elder. This list is similar to the one he gave Timothy in 1 Timothy 3. It's important to remember that these characteristics are good for every believer to follow and especially for anyone in a leadership position in the church. The characteristics deal primarily with the pastor's character rather than his education, knowledge, or skill. So let's review these characteristics and ask God to make each of us qualified to serve as a church leader (even if we are never called on to serve in leadership).

• He must live a blameless life--obviously this does not mean perfection as we know that Jesus was the only perfect man who ever lived. But it does mean that we should be known as good, honest, hardworking people.
• He must be faithful to his wife.
• His children should be believers who don't have a reputation for being wild or rebellious.
• He must not be arrogant.
• He must not be quick-tempered.
• He must not abuse alcohol or any other substance.
• He must not be violent.
• He must be honest with money.
• He must show hospitality.
• He must love what is good.
• He must live wisely and be just.
• He must live a devout and disciplined life.
• He must be confident in the truth of the message he teaches so that he can teach and encourage others and he can show others where they may be wrong.

This is a high standard! I want to say here that no man or woman of God is able to live up to these standards perfectly. Church leaders are growing in their Christian walk just like everyone else, and they will make mistakes or fall short from time to time. We must be compassionate and understanding of others' shortcomings just as we hope they will be for our own. Our first job is to make sure we stay in a right relationship with God and then pray for and encourage our leaders that they will never bring reproach on the Lord's work.

Psalm 119:17-24

In v. 18 the psalmist prayed, "Open my eyes to see the wonderful truths in your instructions." This is a worthy prayer every time we open God's Word. We can read it paying half attention, or we can sit in church and pay no attention! When this is the case, it's hard to make application to our own lives. The Holy Spirit is ready and willing to be our teacher whenever we come to God's Word if we are willing to let Him open our eyes.