praying effectively: Be Dignified (1Tim. 3:8-16)

(1 Timothy 3:8-16)  Deacons likewise must be men of dignity, not double-tongued, or addicted to much wine or fond of sordid gain, 9 but holding to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 These men must also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons if they are beyond reproach. 11 Women must likewise be dignified, not malicious gossips, but temperate, faithful in all things. 12 Deacons must be husbands of only one wife, and good managers of their children and their own households. 13 For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.

14 I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you before long; 15 but in case I am delayed, I write so that you will know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth. 16 By common confession, great is the mystery of godliness:

He who was revealed in the flesh,
Was vindicated in the Spirit,
Seen by angels,
Proclaimed among the nations,
Believed on in the world, 

Taken up in glory. 

Reminder:  "praying effectively" involves knowing God's will.  When we pray in His will (in His name), He may choose to not answer those prayers in the time period that we would like, or HOW we would like - but He will answer those prayers!

It is God's will:

- that deacons must be dignified men and women (3:8, 11)

- that deacons must not be malicious gossips (3:11)

- that deacons must not be deceptive (3:8)

- that deacons must not love money, or be fond of sordid gain (3:8)

- that deacons must not be drunks or alcoholics (3:8)

- that deacons must only have one spouse (3:12)

- that deacons must not be new converts, but must have been proven to be mature believers (3:10)

- that deacons must be faithful and above reproach (3:9-11)

- that deacons must be temperate in all things (3:11)

- that deacons must be good managers of their own households and children (3:12)

- that deacons should strive to be good servants, serving well (3:13)

Today's prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for providing specific details in Your word, in order to help us be organized. efficient, unified and above reproach.  Guide all believers, and specifically all servants in Your Church, to apply and embrace these qualities and attributes.  May everything we do and say be for the building up of Your kingdom, to Your glory, amen.