I Timothy 3:11-13
In the same way, the womenare to be worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything. A deacon must be faithful to his wife and must manage his children and his household well. Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.
Paul provided the principles of serving God. Perhaps we may all feel these are good and appropriate standards, but it seems to me this is still not perfect; why is that so? Should we refrain from serving until our lives have become perfect? In reality, we are all imperfect, but if someone feels that he is perfect, he has become self-righteous. On the other hand, these principles were given not without purpose for it is God's desire for us be perfect. So, how should we serve facing such principles with high standards?
I Timothy 3:1 talks about, "the desires of noble task" in which "desires" is of utmost importance! We should have "desires" regarding our lives and our spiritual situation when walking on this path; it is only when we are close to God, the spirit of God can work deep inside our spirit. Often times, many may feel we need to be perfect before we can come to our Lord, but in fact, it is just the contrary; it is only when a person comes before the Lord, can he be transformed to be like Him.
Second, we need to understand spiritual maturation is a process by itself. It is, therefore, stated in verse 13, "Those who have served well gain an excellent standing." When a person becomes a deacon, he will mature faster, and will become better until he has attained an excellent standing. During this process, he will mature to perfection - this is such a comforting truth! Once you come to this realization, you will be much encouraged in doing the work entrusted by God, because Satan can no longer render his accusation, but instead, you will move bravely forward with God's grace.
Not only should you understand that serving God is a process to maturity, you should also know this truth is also applicable to others. Whenever you see the lives of those brothers and sisters who are not perfect, what would you think of them? Would you be treating them with contempt to the point of ridiculing them? Then you have overlooked that they are also in this process of maturation. May God give us a forgiving heart, so that we may be more tolerant and accepting knowing that we are all treading together in God's path. Are you having a sense of self-pity in serving the Lord today? May His spirit set you free so that you may be serving in front of God openly and without fear.
Pray with Pastor Tong
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.