- 1 Timothy 3:2-7 (NKJV) A bishop then must be…of good behavior
I can almost hear Jesus laughing when He thinks of me being of good behavior. “Behaving” has never been my strong suit. However, there comes a time that practicing good behavior becomes a requirement.
Good behavior is not about mindless conformity to absurd social standards. Good behavior is about conducting yourself appropriately in the circumstances you find yourself. Good behavior looks different in a nursing home than it does in a nursery. Good behavior manifests itself differently at a funeral than it does at a festival. Good behavior for 30-year old looks different from good behavior for a 3-year old.
However, a few common denominators that reflect good behavior in all situations would include:
- First, my behavior will be a good reflection of Jesus Christ (Colossians 3:17)
- Second, my behavior will be a good reflection on my own name (Proverbs 22:1)
- Third, my behavior will raise the bar of excellence, character and virtue (Philippians 4:8)
- Fourth, my behavior will do nothing that would compromise people’s chance to be drawn to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ (I Corinthians 9:22, 10:33)
Bottom line, just like our pastors, we do not have the luxury of living our lives without considering how our actions reflect on Jesus Christ and affect those around us. “Behaving” is a maturity question…maybe it’s time we grow up in some areas.
In light of the Cross, life can’t be one big youth camp or frat house // eventually, we must put away childish things and become adults who behave.
The ONE THING 