(The following is the September 28 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read 1 Timothy 3 and pay close attention to verses 8-13.) The New Testament identifies the deacon's role as practical service and ministry. While some personal characteristics overlap those of the spiritual shepherds in 1 Timothy 3:1-7, the deacon’s function …
Tag: Ministry
The Qualifications of Pastors and Elders
(The following is the September 27 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read 1 Timothy 3 and pay close attention to verses 1-7.) Leading a church is meaningful work with eternal impact. Not everyone is qualified or called to the task. Paul lists the qualifications for men who serve as “overseers” – …
Touching the Untouchable
(The following is the March 10 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read Luke 5 and pay close attention to verses 12-13.) Ample Bible passages warn us about involvement with those who do or encourage evil. From Solomon’s proverbs warning his son about choosing companions to the gospel warning about …
How Best to Be Faithful?
I had a conversation Friday with a work colleague about the opportunities and limitations around expressing one's personal religious faith at work. There is a tension around the subject which is understandable. My company didn't hire me because of anything related to personal faith, nor do my work responsibilities call for (or allow) any overt …
