Overcomer - Generosity for Leaders

TUES. 10/6

Read 1 Timothy 3:1-13

Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task.2 Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, 3 not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. 4 He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect. 5 (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?) 6 He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil. 7 He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s trap.

8 In the same way, deacons are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. 9 They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.

11 In the same way, the women are to be worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything.

12 A deacon must be faithful to his wife and must manage his children and his household well. 13 Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.

Great news! This past Sunday we raised an extra $940 to give away just from the 'Drop it on the Floor' offering at the end of the services.  

Generosity makes a huge impact. Here in his first letter to Timothy, the elder statesman Paul teaches his young protege Timothy (and also us) about the key qualities necessary in church leaders.  Central to his list is that the person is “not a lover of money.”  But there are several other qualities on this list that are also related to the way we handle our stuff.  Pay close attention!

Reflect

Questions
Why is the love of money so dangerous?

Read the passage again slowly. What are three or four important qualities listed here that you could use some work on?

Prayer

Father in heaven, I need your help to become someone who does not love money.  I deeply appreciate all the good things you have blessed me with.  Help me to hold it all loosely. Work on me and in me so that I find ways to share your bounty with the people around me. Amen.

Memory Verse

A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. Proverbs 11:25 NIV

Share

Gather some family friends together and read the passage. Then ask this question:

Who do we know that has a generous heart?  What can we learn from their example this week?

DFM Nation

Next Sunday Pastor Shane Bengry will dive into more in depth teaching on how to overcome Sloth with Diligence. Take a moment to pray for and invite someone.