³ He must not be a heavy drinker^[a] or be violent. He must be gentle, not quarrelsome, and not love money.

⁷ A church leader^[a] is a manager of God’s household, so he must live a blameless life. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered; he must not be a heavy drinker,^[b] violent, or dishonest with money.

² They must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone.

⁸ In the same way, deacons must be well respected and have integrity. They must not be heavy drinkers or dishonest with money.

Drawing Close to God

4 What is causing the quarrels and fights among you? Don’t they come from the evil desires at war within you?

² Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly—not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God.

⁵ Don’t love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said,

³ Similarly, teach the older women to live in a way that honors God. They must not slander others or be heavy drinkers.^[a] Instead, they should teach others what is good.

¹⁸ Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit,