Give it Some Time

Scripture:
“The sins of some men are quite evident going before them to judgment; for others, their sins follow after. Likewise also, deeds that are good are quite evident and those which are otherwise cannot be concealed.” — 1 Tim. 5:24-25
 
Observation:
In this verse, Paul is warning Timothy not to make judgments on people based on his first encounter with them. As some time passes he will be able to see their true character as their deeds reveal themselves. This is written just after he warns Timothy not to be hasty in laying hands on or approving people in the church.
 
Application:
This verse serves as a good warning for us believers and to our church body. As I meditate over this scripture, Proverbs 4:23 comes to mind. “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.” Just because someone seems to be a “good person” doesn’t mean we should trust him completely before we really get to know him better. This applies to friendships and dating relationships. Much pain and sin could be avoided by not being hasty in giving others so much weight in our lives.
 
The same applies to our church in its everyday functions. We as a church body must give people time before approving them before the congregation or giving them leadership positions in the church. This serves to help protect the name of Christ before unbelievers. Some people, not excluding Christians, can hide their sins very well, and once they are revealed Christ’s name is damaged in others’ eyes.
 
Prayer:
Father, I pray for my own discernment as I serve in the worship ministry here at Pinelake. Help me to not be hasty in approving musicians or others because of their talent or personality, but give me patience to really get to know them first. Lord I also pray that we don’t try to hide our sins, but that we confess them to you and repent, so we will not damage your name and the work you are doing through us and our church. May your name be precious to us, and give us wisdom as we deal with others this week.  

— Jason Elam, worship pastor, Clinton campus