Daily Bible Reading – August 2023, God’s Saving Word: EncouragementÀpẹrẹ

August 21

Introduction

Today's reading offers instructions for church leaders and church helpers. In the early church, a church leader was also known as a bishop, the chief leader of a local congregation. Church helpers were also known as deacons who had the task of serving people and taking care of their needs.

Scripture Reading

1 Timothy 3:1-16

Today’s Key Verse: 1 Timothy 3:13

Those helpers who do their work well win for themselves a good standing and are able to speak boldly about their faith in Christ Jesus.

Reflect

According to today's reading, what qualities should those who hold leadership positions in the church possess? Think of church leaders you may know. What leadership qualities do they exhibit? What is the "secret" mentioned in verse 16? Have you had an opportunity to share this "secret" with others and speak boldly about your faith? If so, what was the circumstance?

Pray

Sovereign God, bless and care for the leaders and helpers of your church. Equip them with integrity, good sense, wisdom, boldness, courage, and love, that they may help the church become a reflection of your realm. By your Holy Spirit, empower me to speak boldly to others about my faith in Christ Jesus. Amen.

And now, join us in thanking God that the audio Bible is helping to bring God's Word to people in Ethiopia who are spiritually and physically blind. Gracious God, Ethiopia is one of the poorest countries in the world, and there are no teachers for blind people. Thanks to the generosity of Bible-A-Month Partners, men, women, and children who are blind, visually impaired, or unable to read, are being provided with the audio Bible and learning about Jesus. We praise you, Lord God, for the life-changing gift of the audio Bible. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

1 Timothy 4:1-16: The apostle Paul gives personal advice to Timothy.