DAILY TEXT, Friday, May 8, 2026. The heart of the wise gives discerning understanding to his tongue and makes his words more convincing (Prov. 16:23).

Let us examine the Scriptures every day 2026

Friday, May 8, 2026

The heart of the wise gives discerning understanding to his tongue and makes his words more convincing (Prov. 16:23).

To be a more effective teacher, an elder should 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). 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. 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 counsel or even reprove some. But they should always do so with kindness. 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) w24.11 24 par. 16

Why should an elderly man “not be a newly converted man,” and how does he prove that he is “loyal”?

An elder “must not be a newly converted man.” 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 that he is “loyal” by holding fast to Jehovah and his righteous standards and by following the instructions he gives through his organization (1 Tim. 4:15).

Is it essential for the elderly person to be a great orator?

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 visits (compare 1 Corinthians 12:28, 29 and Ephesians 4:11). Even so, a brother who wants to be an elder should continue to strive to improve his teaching skills. How can he do this?

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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