TODAY’S SCRIPTURE 1 Timothy 3:8

Blameless is an intimidating word. In speaking of God’s servants, Paul wrote, “And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless” (1 Timothy 3:8). The problem is that most people think of “perfect” when they hear the word blameless. Consequently, they believe you must be sinless to serve as a leader in God’s church. If that were the case, the line of qualified candidates would be empty. Obviously, that is not what Paul had in mind.

The word blameless means irreproachable. To reproach someone is to express disapproval. To be irreproachable is to be above criticism. The truth is that everyone gets criticized from time to time. Even Christ was the target of complaints by Jewish religious leaders. To never be criticized by anyone for anything is impossible, and unlike Christ, even the best human being sins from time to time. Therefore, whatever Paul was talking about, he did not mean faultless for all time past, present, and future.

In the highest sense, Christians are blameless through the blood of Christ. In a human sense, Christians are blameless by handling their sins Biblically and respon sibly. When you do something wrong, you must admit it and correct it. By confessing your sins, you demonstrate that you are aware of wrongdoing. It indicates that you are determined not to repeat the sin. Moreover, it suggests you are ready to make things right to the extent possible.

When you repent of sin, confess it to God, apologize to those you have hurt, and strive to repair the harm you caused, you have done all that a human being can do in the wake of sin. It may take some time to “prove” to others your sorrow is sincere and your change is genuine, so be patient with those who are hurting and need time to heal. At this point, however, no one can justifiably bring a charge against you. It is time for everyone to begin moving forward.

Today, I will…face my faults and grow from my past mistakes. When I hurt someone, I will not make excuses. I will make things right.