PASTORS' DAILY DEVOTIONAL
Jun
23

Watch your motives

Rod Shimabukuro

Scripture
[21]In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of the elect angels I charge you to keep these rules without prejudging, doing nothing from partiality. 1 Timothy 5:21
Observation
Paul sets guidelines for the church on how to treat elders pertaining to honoring them, provision and handling sin issues. It appears that Paul knows the church can compromise in these areas for whatever reasons. The position and role of healthy, Biblical, Jesus centered elders are vital to the churches health.

There’s also the need to look inwardly for those of us interacting with elders, spiritual leaders. Be careful not to prejudge and be partial, showing favors or treating these leaders in an unfair manner.

Application
It’s interesting to watch how people treat popular spiritual leaders in the church The big name, the anointed, the charismatic, the gifted and talented. I must be careful myself, not to be a man pleaser, showing favoritism to the hierarchy in the church world.

On the other hand, I must be careful not to prejudge or criticize them - because they are popular, gifted, etc. It’s too easy to allow the fleshy thoughts of jealousy, insecurity, pride fester in my heart. How poisonous this can be to my soul and life!

I want to live differently by remembering what Paul wrote - “In the presence of God and Christ Jesus…” I want to reflect on the fact that I am in the presence of the Lord when I’m thinking Biblically and when I’m not. Being and living in the presence of God, is the reality that I must remember when I’m faced with the temptation to prejudge or have thoughts of partiality.

Prayer
You are so good Lord. Holy Spirit - I thank you so much for Your presence in my heart and life! Thank you for opening my heart to Your wonderful Word this morning! I really want to be and live like You, representing Your heart in this area of how I treat and live around spiritual leadership. I love You so much!

Devotions for June 23

2 Kings 10
2 Chronicles 22,23
1 Timothy 5

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