HOW WELL DO YOU GET ALONG WITH OTHERS? (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9) – 2
READ 1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9
In the last blog we looked at what God looks for in a leader. First, a godly leader must want to be a godly leader. Second, a godly leader must have godly inner qualities. In this blog we will look at another character trait.
- A GODLY LEADER HAS GODLY INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS
To be a godly leader means we need to get along with others. Paul lists several qualities God expects godly leaders to have so they treat others correctly.
A godly leader cannot be quick-tempered (Titus 1:7) or violent (1 Timothy 3:3). He cannot get angry quickly or easily, or be someone who argues a lot with others (Proverbs 29:22). That includes how he treats his wife and children as well. He must remain calm under pressure. There is a godly anger, righteous indignation, like when Jesus sent the moneychangers out of the temple, but it must be done under control and only against sin that demands it. Even then we must be very, very careful we don’t end up in sin ourselves (Ephesians 4:26).
Paul adds that a leader can’t be quarrelsome (1 Timothy 3:3). He can’t be someone who is known for arguing. He can’t insult others who insult him or criticize others. He can’t be a person who dominates the conversation and must always be right about everything (Proverbs 20:3). Instead, a godly leader must be willing to listen, open to learn, and able to change his opinion when necessary.
This person doesn’t have to have his or her own way all the time. They are not overbearing (Titus 1:7), not arrogant or prideful. They get along with others and work well as part of a team.
After saying what we are not to be like with others, Paul also says what we are to be like: gentle (1 Timothy 3:3). This has the idea of patience with others, being kind and considerate. It means being willing to yield, to forgive and to overlook an offense. People never feel put down or criticized by this person. (July 25, 2022 Doylestown, PA)
Would your wife or children say you get angry a lot? Do they think you always have to be right? Are you willing to listen to them and change your mind if they make good sense? Do others see you as someone who is patient and kind in all your dealings with everyone, no matter their situation in life?
cto Rev. Dr. JERRY SCHMOYER
Christian Training Organization
Jerry@ChristianTrainingOrganization.org
(India Outreach, Spiritual Warfare, Family Ministries, Counseling, World View)
Copyright © 2021