A Trail of Evidence

635 - Today's Prime Time Devo comes from 1Ti 3:10 But let these also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons, being found blameless. The next qualification for the person serving as deacon is they must be tested and found blameless. The idea of testing here is taking something to the assayers office to determine if it is the real deal. You wouldn't want to lay claim to a mine that had nothing but “fools gold,” and you certainly don't want a fool (a hypocrite) serving in the office of deacon. There is no testing procedure listed here for the deacon, only that he be blameless. In other words his life is such that no one could charge him with not being a follower of Christ. The deacon then is one who believes and is baptized and leaves a trail of evidence that his faith is genuine. Given the responsibilities of the office of deacon, (ministering to the needy) one can see where this evidence is vital. How did the Holy Spirit put it speaking in the Book of James? Jas 2:14 What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, "Depart in peace, be warmed and filled," but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? 17 Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. 18 But someone will say, "You have faith, and I have works." Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. 19 You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe--and tremble! 20 But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead? Obviously this passage is meant for all Christians, but it is especially relevant as a test for those who would serve as deacons in the Body of Christ. Father help us all to pass the true test of faith. Let us leave a trail of evidence of love and service to others in the name of Jesus, who lives and breathes in us by Thy Holy Spirit.