God's desire is that a church have men who are spiritually mature and that these men be appointed as elders, or pastors, or bishops, to "tend the flock" which is among them (Ephesians 4:11; Acts 20:28). He has given qualifications for elders to help ensure that men with integrity, knowledge, and the ability to rule, or lead, are chosen for the work (1Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-11). Throughout the years, Timberland Drive has been fortunate to have good elders.

Dick Hollers and Wayne Jones, who served as elders of Timberland Drive in the past, have departed this life and, we trust, rest comfortably in "Abraham's bosom" awaiting the resurrection. Fred Hutson and David Duren, who also once served as elders, continue to worship and work with us; we continue to profit from their wisdom and their examples of faithfulness.

Last Sunday, Joe Smitherman resigned from the eldership, citing health and the distance he lives from Lufkin as reasons for his resignation. Joe and Juanell began worshipping with Timberland Drive in early '91. Joe has served as one of the elders of Timberland Drive for the past 14 years. We appreciate the years Joe has given to this work and the good manner in which he has done so. It is evident that he loves the church and cares for the souls of men. His attitude toward the church and souls has not changed. We look forward to our continued fellowship with Joe and Juanell as they continue to be a part of this congregation.

We still have a strong eldership. John Adams, Tim Beamon, Mike Penn, and Roy Spradley will continue to serve Timberland Drive as elders and, therefore, "watch for our souls" (Hebrews 13:17). I have often been with these men; they "stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel" (Philippians 1:27). I have seen them agonize over souls in jeopardy, heard them dole out godly counsel, and seen them spend hours planning for the work here. They are good men doing a good work.

To ensure that Timberland Drive continues to have good elders in the future, other men, especially the young, must set their goals to become elders and begin to prepare themselves for such service. Paul used two different Greek words for desire when he wrote, "This is a faithful saying: If a man desires the position of a bishop, he desires a good work" (1Timothy 3:1). One time he uses the Greek word, oregomai (or-eg'-om-ahee), which means "to stretch one self, i.e. reach out after." The other time he uses epithumeo (ep-ee-thoo-meh'-o) which means "to set the heart upon, i.e. long for." It takes time and effort to develop the character and knowledge that the job demands. Furthermore, the church must always be determined to appoint only those who are qualified and who will faithfully "tend the flock among them" if we are to continue to have good elders.

The eldership at Timberland has been strong in the past, is strong now, and should be strong in the future. God bless Timberland Drive and its elders as we strive to glorify His name.

"And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you. And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves" (1Thessalonians 5:12-13).