Temperance in Ministry

Titus 1:7 For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre;
8 But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate;
9 Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.

INTRODUCTORY THOUGHTS

Today's passage presents a list of qualifications for a man who desires to be a pastor holding the office of a bishop. Though this list specifically deals with a ministry office, it could serve as a list of admonitions for anyone desiring to serve the Lord. Bible teachers and preachers often focus on a few of the most publicized qualifications while neglecting some of the others. For instance, very rarely is much attention focused on the necessity of temperance in the life of the man of God. Temperance plays an important part in the life of God's servant. Failure of those in leadership to be balanced will lead to a whole church full of people lacking temperance. This same truth holds for anyone who leads or serves in any ministry of a church.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS

• (For children): Paul wrote two letters to Timothy giving him instruction on how to faithfully serve the Lord. Among other things, Paul told Timothy to study, to pray, and to pay attention to reading. He also emphasized the importance of doctrine (the teachings of the Bible), and exhortation (urging people strongly and encouraging them to do the right thing).

• (For everyone): What ways would temperance be useful to someone in a teaching and preaching position in the church?

• Temperance is contagious. Are you encouraging others to lead balanced lives or a slack life?

PRAYER THOUGHTS

• Ask God to help you minister to others with temperance.

• Ask God to show you the value of temperance in your walk.

SONG: Good God in What Vain Age We Live

Pastor Andrew Ray

Devotions on Temperance