praying effectively: Respect Our Elders (1Tim. 5:17-25)

(1 Timothy 5:17-25)  The elders who rule well are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching. 18 For the Scripture says, “You shall not muzzle the ox while he is threshing,” and “The laborer is worthy of his wages.” 19 Do not receive an accusation against an elder except on the basis of two or three witnesses. 20 Those who continue in sin, rebuke in the presence of all, so that the rest also will be fearful of sinning. 21 I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of His chosen angels, to maintain these principles without bias, doing nothing in a spirit of partiality. 22 Do not lay hands upon anyone too hastily and thereby share responsibility for the sins of others; keep yourself free from sin.

23 No longer drink water exclusively, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments.

24 The sins of some men are quite evident, going before them to judgment; for others, their sins follow after. 25 Likewise also, deeds that are good are quite evident, and those which are otherwise cannot be concealed. 

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 we respect our elders and pastors, and show extra respect to those who work very hard (5:17-18)

- that the church should pay pastors fair wages (5:17-18)

- that we do not consider an accusation against an elder or pastor unless there are 2 or 3 witnesses (5:19)

- that when an elder continues in rebellious sin, he is to be rebuked in front of the entire congregation (5:20)

- that we do not give preferential treatment to anyone (5:21)

- that we keep ourselves free from sin (5:22)

- that we do not put up strict personal standards for ourselves if it is going to hurt us in any way (5:23)

- that we do not ordain a pastor or install an elder too quickly without doing proper background checks, as well as waiting to see if they are fruitful or not (5:22-25)

Today's prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for Your wisdom.  Help us apply Your wisdom as we seek out and ordain our pastors and choose our elders.  Help us show respect to them in support and encouragement.  Protect us from evil, and keep us steadfast in our service to You.  All to Your glory, amen.