Titus 1  Paul writes this letter to Titus, a Gentile man who was put in charge of organizing the churches in Crete... quite a responsibility.  

There are two main points that Paul wants to emphasize - godliness and truth.  The church must have these characteristics in order to be all she should be.  It is "the knowledge of the truth" that leads to godliness. We cannot have one without the other. 

It is important that the leadership of any church to not only believe the truth, but to live it .. their lives must exhibit the godly character that they preach.  Therefore, Paul describes those traits carefully.. 

"For the overseer must be above reproach as God's steward, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not addicted to wine, not pugnacious, not fond of sordid gain, but hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, just, devout, self-controlled, holding fast the faithful word.. " (v7-9)

There were men who thought themselves worthy of these positions, but Paul cautioned Titus to have discernment - the rebellious, the "empty-talkers", the money hungry, the slanderous, those defiled by impurity.. those whose lives do not glorify God, but "deny Him".. must be refuted by the Truth. 

Father in heaven, we thank You for faithful, Spirit filled leaders in the Church. We thank You for every one who preaches or teaches Truth and who live it out with love and kindness towards others. Father, we pray for those who are in positions of leadership in our church, that they will know You more and more and that they will remain faithful in all circumstances.  Give them wisdom that is pure and peaceable, gentle and reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits.. to the glory of Your Name.  In the Name of Jesus we pray. amen.