Character- A High Priority

Scripture: 1 Timothy 3:1- Here is a trustworthy saying: If anyone sets his heart on being an overseer, he desires a noble task. Observation: Paul's emphasis in outlining the qualifications for church deacons and oversees was not their abilities in leadership or their accomplishments, but on their character. He says very little about what they do but more about the kind of people they should be as models of the Christian life. Application: Just as Paul indicates in this passage that a higher priority be placed on ones character, so in my life there needs to be an increasing value placed upon my character. Do i pay more attention to accomplishments than to my character? I should be constantly seeking with God's guidance to refine my character- becoming more trustworthy, more self controlled, more sincere and respectful. This has another implication for me. When considering people for leadership positions, there should always be a higher value placed on character than their accomplishments. So, in others, as well as myself- character is more valued than leadership. Prayer: God, where do i need to set my values right? what parts of my character need re-evaluating and a re-work? Lord, my prayer is that i would be more concerned with my character, rather than my accomplishments. amen.