Heralds Digest

"A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach." (1 Timothy 3:2 NKJV) A desire for the pinnacle of God's purpose for everyone in life is commendable. The only concern remains the want of the willingness to walk every godly desire. Like every other good desires, the position of a bishop is more than the decoration of title; it is rather more about the declaration of good testimonies from the challenges of life. Blameless bishop is obviously not about a saint walking straight without blame; it is probably about a sinner on an adventure of faith, who can't even walk without God holding his hands.

"I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting." (1 Timothy 2:8 NKJV) The setup of an environment for a solemn assembly invites any spirit-minded man to the prayer altar. Whether on a secluded prayer mountain or within the silent corner of the bed, a praying man will readily lift up holy hands to heaven in a conducive environment, without restraints. Unfortunately, prayers are not designed to be reserved for certain places or zones. Human bodies are expected to be the mobile houses, where prayers are continuously offered. Many ' evils ' are perpetrated without, when the real house within is littered with doubt, malice and anger. A prayer warrior represents the temple or prayer house of impossibility, where holy hands connect heaven and earth.

"Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence." (1 Timothy 2:1-2 NKJV) Considering the impact of policy or decision makers on the quality of individual's life, it is easier to understand why leaders are common subjects of attacks. However, apostle Paul's approach proposes prayer for all, including those whose actions impact negatively on one's quality of life. Obviously, it is better to pray for all than to prey on oneself. Bitterness and anger damage the body and mental health of the bearer more than the perceived effect on the target. Whereas, our sights and minds become clearer for better productivity when we pray for detractors, instead of preying on oneself.

"This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief." (1 Timothy 1:15 NKJV) Although the plan of redemption spanned numerous genealogies from the fall of man (Adam) to his salvation (Jesus Christ), the redemptive blood of Christ is ageless. The birth of Christ took place among numerous events; but the evidence of his appearance is incomparable. Without mincing words, the essence of all of human existence becomes relevant, when they are referenced from the finite genealogy, i.e., the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ.

"Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way. The Lord be with you all." (2 Thessalonians 3:16 NKJV) Situation-driven peace is bound to give excuse for impatience in times of a great perturbation. Such is the basis of the lack of perpetual peaceful relationships and coexistence in every system and situation of life. However, spirit-driven peace is neither a function of space and time, nor a derivative of situation and circumstances. Ocean and sea may roar ceaselessly; and the storm and wind may blow continuously. When God himself becomes our peace, we will soar with enduring calmness.

"Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run swiftly and be glorified, just as it is with you, and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for not all have faith." (2 Thessalonians 3:1-2 NKJV) The relationship between God and man is built and maintained by faith. And living by faith, in the face of real challenges of life, requires more than a personal effort. Unfortunately, desperate search for solution to life's challenges often defy the patience of faith. Before the destruction of personal relationship with God is consummated, wickedness must have been encouraged with defamation of godly characters. Without the grace of God and a consistent prayer support, no one can endure the torment of wicked men. While persevering faith does not always make sense, it does make saints.

"...because God from the beginning chose you...to which He called you by our gospel, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ." (2 Thessalonians 2:13-14 NKJV) Special privileges are created or permitted for special purposes, ordained by God. A good reflection on the essence of our salvation from physical, financial, emotional, and spiritual destructions will always draw the attention to God's special call. Unfortunately, the pursuit of self-glory always stand in the way of God's glory, whenever good wealth matter more than good work. In all of our daily engagements, a special call counts loss as gain as long as God's glory is appreciated.