DAILY TEXT, Friday, April 24, 2026. Reflect on these things; devote yourself to them, so that all may clearly see your progress (1 Tim. 4:15).

Let us examine the Scriptures every day 2026

Friday, April 24, 2026

Reflect on these things; devote yourself to them, so that all may clearly see your progress (1 Tim. 4:15).

An elder should not be a recent convert. Although he may not have been baptized for many years, he must have had sufficient time to mature as a Christian. Before being appointed as an elder, he must demonstrate that, like Jesus, he is humble and willing to serve Jehovah in his own way and at his own time (Matt. 20:23; Phil. 2:5-8). Furthermore, he must demonstrate loyalty by holding fast to Jehovah and his righteous standards and by following the instructions he gives through his organization.

The Scriptures make it very clear that an overseer must be qualified to teach. Does that mean he must be a great speaker? Not necessarily. There are many good elders who are not known for giving the best speeches but are effective at teaching in the ministry and on shepherding calls. w24.11 23 pars. 14, 15

How can a brother become a more effective teacher?

“He must hold fast to the faithful word.” To be a more effective teacher, an elder must always base his teaching on God’s Word, both when teaching publicly and when giving counsel privately. He is a good student of the Bible and of our publications (Prov. 15:28; 16:23). When he studies, he pays close attention to the correct application of the verses. And when he teaches, he strives to reach the hearts of those who listen to him.

One thing that will help him improve as a teacher is to ask experienced elders for suggestions and put them into practice (1 Tim. 5:17). Elders also need to be able to “encourage” their brothers and sisters, even if at times they have to give them counsel or even “reprove” some. But they should always do so in a kind way. If they are kind and loving and base their teaching on God’s Word, they will be effective teachers because they will be imitating the Great Teacher, Jesus (Matt. 11:28-30; 2 Tim. 2:24).

What can encourage ministerial servants to continue striving to become elders?

After reviewing the qualifications for being an elder, some ministerial servants may feel they will never be able to meet them. But they should remember that neither Jehovah nor his organization expects them to demonstrate these qualities perfectly (1 Pet. 2:21). Furthermore, they have the help of Jehovah’s powerful spirit to reach this goal (Phil. 2:13). What about you? Would you like to improve in any of these qualities in particular? Then pray to Jehovah, research the subject, and ask the elders for suggestions on how to improve.

What should all ministerial servants do?

All the brothers and sisters, including those who are already elders, would do well to continue cultivating the qualities discussed in this article (Phil. 3:16). And if you are a ministerial servant, keep striving to reach your goal of becoming an elder. Ask Jehovah to equip and mold you so that you can be even more useful to him and to the congregation (Isa. 64:8). Jehovah will surely bless your efforts to reach this goal.

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