Listening & Learning — A Devotional

1 Timothy 3:10

THE OFFICE

1st Timothy 3:10. “And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless.” THE OFFICE. This is not a room set aside for the comfort of leading men; But rather a specific work given for them to do. The ministry is defined and has been given unto them By the Holy Spirit who describes the deacon’s role. This should never be taken lightly; neither the role or the work; For it is God and His people who we serve. The tasks linked with this work we should not avoid nor shirk; God Himself is the One who does wholly observe.

“Daily ministrations” indicates some work is oft repeated, As the needs of some people returns from day to day. In the lives of folks who are older, help is often daily needed; It may be to do some simple thing and then to read and pray.

Those who have health issues and continually suffer – May need some basic comforts to survive. With joy and anticipation, they wait for you to come there, And give them some daily comfort while they live.

There is “church business” that needs attending to – The supply of goods and finances to disburse. This work is never easy, for no matter what you do; There’ll be some among the group you will never please. But remember it is an “office,” we know such work’s not smooth, The Holy Spirit gives wisdom as He fills you for these tasks. And the reputation of honesty; all of these will help you prove The Lord gives answers in peace to lead when you earnestly ask.

“May the work of a deacon that I do Father, always be done in the fear of the Lord and with an eye to the welfare of the saints. May the teaching ministry of this night be relevant and understandable. May I be able to serve the saints in whatever way is needed, with a sense of compassion and awareness of their value to Thee. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”

The spiritual life of a deacon, will validate the opinions and judgments he makes as he serves the Lord and His people. Many people do not live by faith and do not understand "the faith" as a body of truth that is given for us to know and live by. The deacon needs this "mystery" to control his conscience and life. What we do and teach, has to be tested to make sure it is genuine to us and to others. They will see the reality of the faith as we consistently follow divine truth. This does not have the idea of passing a test after having a course of study, but is evidence of God's approval after the testing of time and righteous living. This examination isn't something that is done once and then it is over with forever. It is the on-going examination of a life and of ministry being constantly approved by God. God fits, and intends to keep fit, one who represents Him. There will be a willingness to work, and an excellent standing (degree) among God's people. That will be established, because It is a serious matter to serve the local church. Beside this, there is assurance before God and men that their ministry can be depended on to be right. Deacons serve in both administrative work and in spiritual ministry. It is in these areas where sisters also serve in showing mercy, hospitality and a teaching consistent with their role in the assembly. They are to teach younger women family values and responsibilities to assist her husband in his leadership if she has one who is guiding those who need to be taught.