1 Timothy 3:8-16

1 Timothy 3 (New Living Translation)
8 In the same way, deacons must be well respected and have integrity. They must not be heavy drinkers or dishonest with money. 9 They must be committed to the mystery of the faith now revealed and must live with a clear conscience. 10 Before they are appointed as deacons, let them be closely examined. If they pass the test, then let them serve as deacons.
11 In the same way, their wives[e] must be respected and must not slander others. They must exercise self-control and be faithful in everything they do.
12 A deacon must be faithful to his wife, and he must manage his children and household well. 13 Those who do well as deacons will be rewarded with respect from others and will have increased confidence in their faith in Christ Jesus.
14 I am writing these things to you now, even though I hope to be with you soon, 15 so that if I am delayed, you will know how people must conduct themselves in the household of God. This is the church of the living God, which is the pillar and foundation of the truth.
16 Without question, this is the great mystery of our faith[f]:
Christ[g] was revealed in a human body and vindicated by the Spirit.[h] He was seen by angels and announced to the nations. He was believed in throughout the world and taken to heaven in glory.

Devotion (by Justin W.)
Have you ever considered that you are a leader? Surely in some aspects of your life you are placed into a subordinate position – one in which you must follow rules and laws and answer to other people. Likewise, in some aspects of life you have a leadership role. I find it interesting that some people thrive in leadership roles and others shy away from them. However you feel about being a leader you will still have influence on others throughout your lifetime. Your decisions impact others in many ways. As leaders in our church we must examine our behavior compared to God’s standards. We all sin, and yes, God has already forgiven us as we come to him in the name of Christ. Sometimes we feel tempted to make a choice that feels good at the time, all the while knowing that we should really choose differently. It can be easy to justify our poor choices by saying things like “It’s just been a hard day” or “I didn’t realize the effects that would have.” I find it helpful when I’m faced with temptation to remember my role as a leader in God’s church and to think “how would I feel if my brother or sister in Christ saw me make this poor choice?” “How would I feel if they made this poor choice?”

Prayer
Father God, I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior. Show me the ways you would have me to lead. While I am not a pastor I recognize that others look to me as an example. Help me to lead well and to always shine your love to others. Give me clarity in my choices and help me to choose wisely. Protect me from the temptation of Satan and from my own weakness. Thank you for your love and protection. Amen