Worthy

DEVOTION
1 TIMOTHY
WORTHY
1 Tim 3:11
11 In the same way, their wives are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything.
NIV
At first, in my early days of being a believer I wondered why there was a break in the standards set out for deacon filled with this comment regarding his wife. Of, course once again this surely has nothing to do with my personal relationship with the Lord and so I should simply skip seeking any truths here for myself and simply see this as something woman need to pay close attention to. But, of course I cannot do that as the pastor, teacher in me has to make sense of this just in case someone reads it. First and foremost I notice that deacons should be married men. I do not think if I were single I would have the same sense of peace and fulfillment in the physical realm as I do being married. A single man has thoughts and desires that cannot be fulfilled which I believe would hamper his ability to serve in this capacity. I know Paul makes a point in the other direction, about single is better, yet here a deacon has a wife, which Paul also says that if he cannot control those desires he should marry. Now these women who are married to such men who serve the body of Christ in this manner are surely not without standards. It is set out clear and simply as to how they are to behave. Now, again I think I am in danger when I contemplate not seeing any standards for deaconess’s and thus might be standing opposed to the post modern church. Could I be wrong about this? Am I standing all alone on this idea that it is men who are called by God to lead and it is the women who are the supporting person, not behind the scenes, but supporting out front being an example to other women by living out these standards. That does sound so chauvinistic, but I know I am not. I have always said that I believe men and woman are equal beings in the eyes of God with different roles. I do not think that I look down on women in any way. But at the same time the scripture is what it is, and it clearly does not make room for women to occupy positions of spiritual leadership over men. I think what this verse does is help clarify Gods order for his creation. I can live with that, but I know more is coming regarding addition standards for men who are called to be deacons. I think it is imperative whenever men are considered by the congregation to serve in this capacity their wives must be a part of the election process. That is their wives should be examined to see if these standards are being lived out and if not then that man is not qualified and should not be elected for if his wife is not such then I do not think God would call him either. If I cannot say that I am my wife are one, I am not worthy either. It is all about worthy.