Devotion for Sunday, December 19, 2021

“Deacons likewise must be men of dignity, not double-tongued, or addicted to much wine or fond of sordid gain, but holding to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience” (1 Timothy 3:8-9).

All of those who serve in the church ought to seek to be of the same high standard that is spoken of here.  Are we not all called to seek to conform to the image of Christ?  Is this not what Scripture says will happen for those who live by faith?  What then?  Only this: seek to apply these things to your life also as you expect them of others.  Become what you want your neighbor to be.

Lord, help me to be equitable such that if I have an expectation of another, I will hold the same expectation for myself.  Lead me to know that in You I am more than able to do these things.  Guide me, O Lord, in order that I may always look to You as the ultimate example and follow Your lead,  Through all of these things, continue to conform me to Your perfect image.

Lord Jesus, You taught Your disciples each and every day.  You did not settle for their behavior as it was, but continued to mold and shape them to become what they needed to become.  Do the same with me so that I would be conformed to whatever image You so deem right and fitting.  Guide me in order that I would never settle for anything less.  Through all these things, grow me into a leader who walks with You always.  Amen.