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Qualifications 3a: Exploring Paul's Criteria for Leaders

Qualifications 3b: Exploring Paul's Criteria for Leaders

July 02, 20242 min read

“He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect. (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?).” - Apostle Paul, 1 Tim. 4:4-5

Exploring Paul's Criteria for Leaders Part 3b: The Importance of Family Management

In this continuation of the New Day Podcast series on true leadership, we delve deeper into Paul's instructions from 1 Timothy 3: "He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect. (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?)".

Let's explore the key aspects:

  1. He must manage his own family well. We covered this last week.

  2. His children obey him.

  3. He is worthy of full respect.

Children and Obedience: A Timeless Challenge

In today's society, the concept of when a child becomes an independent adult is often debated. Reflecting on my own experiences, I recall discussing this with a young woman, pondering when a child should be free to make their own decisions. The dynamics between parents and their adult children can be complex and multifaceted.

During an anniversary celebration for a church we planted, I shared my vision of raising children to become independent. Misunderstandings aside, the goal was clear: to prepare them for life on their own. This approach aligns with Proverbs 22:6, "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it."

Raising Unique Individuals

Having three children and eleven grandchildren has taught me that every child is unique. My eldest son, Dave, lives in Georgia with his six boys, including two adopted from Ethiopia. My middle son, Chris, resides in Oregon with his two sons, and my daughter, Melodie, has adopted three girls. Each child requires a different management style, emphasizing that there is no universal template for parenting.

The Role of Prayer and Respect

Parents may not always agree with their children's decisions, but prayer and trust in the Holy Spirit play crucial roles in guiding them. Managing your family well means being worthy of respect. It doesn't mean you'll always be respected, but you'll be worthy of it through your actions and relationships.

Life's Ebb and Flow

Life brings disappointments and celebrations. Whether it's graduations, weddings, or overcoming obstacles, maintaining respect through all of life's events is essential. Our lives are like sponges, absorbing experiences that reveal our true character when squeezed.

Through all the ups and downs, strive to be worthy of respect.

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Qualifications 3a: Exploring Paul's Criteria for Leaders

Qualifications 3b: Exploring Paul's Criteria for Leaders

July 02, 20242 min read

“He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect. (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?).” - Apostle Paul, 1 Tim. 4:4-5

Exploring Paul's Criteria for Leaders Part 3b: The Importance of Family Management

In this continuation of the New Day Podcast series on true leadership, we delve deeper into Paul's instructions from 1 Timothy 3: "He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect. (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?)".

Let's explore the key aspects:

  1. He must manage his own family well. We covered this last week.

  2. His children obey him.

  3. He is worthy of full respect.

Children and Obedience: A Timeless Challenge

In today's society, the concept of when a child becomes an independent adult is often debated. Reflecting on my own experiences, I recall discussing this with a young woman, pondering when a child should be free to make their own decisions. The dynamics between parents and their adult children can be complex and multifaceted.

During an anniversary celebration for a church we planted, I shared my vision of raising children to become independent. Misunderstandings aside, the goal was clear: to prepare them for life on their own. This approach aligns with Proverbs 22:6, "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it."

Raising Unique Individuals

Having three children and eleven grandchildren has taught me that every child is unique. My eldest son, Dave, lives in Georgia with his six boys, including two adopted from Ethiopia. My middle son, Chris, resides in Oregon with his two sons, and my daughter, Melodie, has adopted three girls. Each child requires a different management style, emphasizing that there is no universal template for parenting.

The Role of Prayer and Respect

Parents may not always agree with their children's decisions, but prayer and trust in the Holy Spirit play crucial roles in guiding them. Managing your family well means being worthy of respect. It doesn't mean you'll always be respected, but you'll be worthy of it through your actions and relationships.

Life's Ebb and Flow

Life brings disappointments and celebrations. Whether it's graduations, weddings, or overcoming obstacles, maintaining respect through all of life's events is essential. Our lives are like sponges, absorbing experiences that reveal our true character when squeezed.

Through all the ups and downs, strive to be worthy of respect.

Back to Blog