Introductory Thoughts
With the need so great, Christians frequently wonder why they are not used more in the Lord’s service and work. They fail to realize that their reputations have limited many of their opportunities. Until their reputations are repaired, their opportunities will remain hindered. In the early church, a problem came to the attention of the apostles when the “widows were neglected in the daily ministration” (Acts 6:1). As the apostles gave counsel for a solution, they suggested that the believers look out among them “seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom” (Acts 6:3). Why was it so important to consider the reputations of those men who were potential candidates? The apostles knew that the reputation of man hinders or helps in the service of the Lord.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): David kept sheep for his father. He had an excellent reputation. Even one of king Sauls servants knew his stellar reputation. When Saul needed someone to play a harp, David was offered the opportunity and later became Sauls armourbearer (1 Samuel 16:17-22).
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(For everyone): God can overcome someones reputation, but men require more time. Why is it important to have a good reputation among the saved and among the lost?
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What are some other areas of service in which the Lord demanded a good reputation as a qualification for service? What does this suggest about our reputations?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to give you a good report and opportunity to serve.
- Thank God for the light He has given in His word.
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