​The qualifications of the Overseers and Deacons could be categorized into the following areas:

1. Character Development: Paul instructed the leaders to be “above reproach,” “temperate, self-controlled, respectable” (v.2), “not given to drunkenness,” “gentle,” “not a lover of money” (v.3), “worthy of respect” (vv.8, 11), “not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain (v.8), “not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy” (v.11). His focus on leadership is not on their performance but on their personal development. Thus, we need to strive to be the “right person” and not just doing the right things. Out of the above characters, pick three that you need to work on.

2. Family Testimony: Paul reminded the leaders that they needed to be “the husband of but one wife (vv.2, 12), and to “manage his own family well and see that his children obey him with proper respect” (vv.4-5, 12). Likewise, we need to be careful of our testimony at home. Evaluate your relationship with your family members and see if there is any area(s) that you need to mend or to build/rebuild. If so, start building those areas as soon as possible (which may include saying “sorry,” “I love you,” “forgive me,” or spending more time with family members, etc.).

3. Interpersonal Relationship: Paul also mentioned that a leader had to be “hospitable” (v.2), “not violent,” “not quarrelsome” (v.3), and with “good reputation with outsiders” (v.7). That demands a leader to have good interpersonal relationship. Evaluate your relationship with others and see if there is any relationship that you need to work on.  

4. Biblical Sturdiness: Paul said that an overseer had to be “able to teach” (v.2), and a deacon “must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith” (v.9). So, a leader needs to have biblical sturdiness. Are you willing to make time to study and to share God’s words? Start with setting aside a regular time to do your daily devotion and to read spiritual books. Trying cutting down your TV or online time to make time for that. Plan it into your daily schedule and find someone to keep you accountable.

5. Your own insight: (fill in yourself) 

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Meditation and Application:

Meditate on the above questions along with the necessary actions. Focus on developing yourself to be the person that God desires.