Scripture to Read: 1 Timothy 3:3
As we continue through 1 Timothy 3, we see more of the characteristics God lays out that a pastor (and all other believers) must have to be useful to our Master. God specifically says that a pastor must not be “addicted to wine.” Other translations of 1 Timothy 3:3 say a pastor must not be a drunkard nor a heavy drinker. God does not want a pastor (or any believer) being controlled by any substance. God wants us to be under the complete control of His Holy Spirit living in us (Ephesians 5:18). God then says a pastor (and of course all other believers) must not be “pugnacious” (a bully, violent, quick-tempered, hot-headed), which we also saw yesterday in 1 Timothy 3:2 when God says a pastor must be “temperate.” Our emotions can get in the way of being useful to God, which is why we must be surrendered to Him at all times. God then adds, in 1 Timothy 3:3, that the pastor must be “gentle.” Gentle does not mean being weak, but God’s gentleness is power under control. Our Lord Jesus Christ was the perfect example of gentleness. A pastor must also be “peaceable,” which means to be considerate and not quarrelsome. Then God says that a pastor must be “free from the love of money.” God does not want a pastor clinging to the stuff of this world because this is not our home. Again, all of these characteristics should be evident in all believers so that we always honor our King.
Challenge & Application
1. What did God teach you today about the characteristics of a pastor and, of course, us too?
2. How are you living out these characteristics in your life each day?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!