LIVING ABOVE REPROACH
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: 1 Timothy 3:2-7
Supporting Texts: Titus 1:6-9, Proverbs 10:9, Psalm 15:1-5, Hebrews 12:14, 1 Peter 2:12
INTRODUCTION:
In a world filled with challenges, accusations, and moral pitfalls, living a life that is above reproach is essential for every believer. To live above reproach means to live with such integrity and godliness that no one can rightly accuse or bring a valid charge against you. It is a high standard set by God, especially for those in leadership but applicable to all Christians. This lifestyle protects your witness, honours God, and strengthens your influence in the world.
Living above reproach does not mean being perfect, but it means being so transparent, honest, and consistent in your walk with God that accusations find no ground. It requires diligence, accountability, and a heart committed to holiness and truth. This message will explore practical ways to live above reproach and maintain a godly reputation that glorifies God.
A life above reproach positions you to be a powerful testimony in the community, a trustworthy servant in the church, and a light in the darkness. It opens doors for God’s blessings and protection while bringing honour to His name.
1. THE FOUNDATION OF LIVING ABOVE REPROACH IS INTEGRITY
a) Integrity means living consistently with God’s standards (Proverbs 10:9).
Walking with integrity means your actions match your words, and you do what is right even when no one is watching. It builds trust and respect.
b) It protects you from falling into sin and disgrace (Psalm 25:21).
Integrity is like a guard that keeps you from hidden traps and public shame.
c) Integrity ensures a clear conscience before God and man (Acts 24:16).
Living honestly gives you peace and confidence in your relationship with God and others.
d) It establishes a firm foundation for leadership and influence (1 Timothy 3:2).
God appoints leaders who are above reproach, because integrity is key to guiding others faithfully.
Biblical Example: Daniel was known for his integrity, which kept him faithful and honoured even in a foreign land (Daniel 6:4-5).
Daniel’s life shows how integrity leads to divine favour and protection.
2. GUARDING YOUR HEART AND MIND IS CRUCIAL TO A REPROACHLESS LIFE
a) The heart is the wellspring of life and action (Proverbs 4:23).
What you allow into your heart determines your thoughts, words, and behaviour. Guard it diligently.
b) Renewing your mind with God’s word keeps you on the right path (Romans 12:2).
A mind fixed on God’s truth resists worldly influences and temptation.
c) Guarding your thoughts prevents compromise and hypocrisy (2 Corinthians 10:5).
Taking every thought captive keeps your life consistent and above criticism.
d) A guarded heart leads to purity and holy living (Psalm 119:9).
Purity flows from a heart kept clean by God’s word and Spirit.
Biblical Example: Joseph guarded his heart and mind despite temptation, maintaining his integrity in Egypt (Genesis 39:7-12).
Joseph’s example teaches us the power of guarding our inner life for outward holiness.
3. ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY MAINTAIN A LIFE ABOVE REPROACH
a) Accountability helps to identify blind spots and areas of weakness (James 5:16).
Sharing struggles with trusted believers brings healing and growth.
b) Transparency prevents secret sin that leads to downfall (Psalm 32:3-5).
Confession and openness keep you from being trapped by hidden faults.
c) It builds trust and honour among believers and outsiders (Proverbs 27:17).
When you live transparently, people see you as genuine and trustworthy.
d) Accountability relationships encourage obedience and perseverance (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10).
Together, believers strengthen one another to remain faithful.
Biblical Example: Nathan confronted David about his sin, leading to repentance and restoration (2 Samuel 12:1-13).
Nathan’s role shows how accountability can restore a life that risks reproach.
4. PRACTICING HUMILITY PREVENTS THE PRIDE THAT LEADS TO REPROACH
a) Humility keeps you dependent on God’s grace and guidance (James 4:6).
Pride causes falls, but humility invites God’s favour and help.
b) It opens your heart to correction and growth (Proverbs 3:11-12).
A humble person listens to advice and changes accordingly.
c) Humility fosters peace in relationships and community (Philippians 2:3-4).
It helps avoid quarrels and promotes unity.
d) God exalts the humble and honours their lives (1 Peter 5:6).
He lifts those who walk humbly above reproach and shame.
Biblical Example: Moses was described as very humble, yet powerful in leading Israel without reproach (Numbers 12:3).
Moses’ life exemplifies how humility safeguards reputation and ministry.
5. LIVING ABOVE REPROACH BRINGS DIVINE BLESSING AND PEACE
a) God’s favour rests on those who live with integrity (Psalm 112:1-3).
Blessings follow those who honour God with their lives.
b) It brings peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7).
A clear conscience and right living bring inner calm and assurance.
c) Living above reproach opens doors for influence and ministry (Proverbs 22:1).
A good reputation is a powerful key in advancing God’s kingdom.
d) It is a testimony that glorifies God and attracts others to Him (1 Peter 2:12).
Your life can be a beacon that leads others to Christ.
Biblical Example: Joseph’s above-reproach life elevated him to rulership in Egypt, blessing many (Genesis 41:39-44).
Joseph’s story reminds us that God rewards faithfulness with increase and honour.
CONCLUSION:
Living above reproach is not optional for the believer; it is a divine mandate that reflects our commitment to God’s holiness. It requires integrity, vigilance, accountability, humility, and a heart fixed on God. Such a life not only protects you from accusations and pitfalls but also brings God’s blessing, peace, and influence in the earth.
As followers of Christ, we must pursue a reputation that honours God and inspires confidence in others. Let us commit today to live lives above reproach, shining as lights in a dark world, and glorifying God in all we do.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to develop and maintain integrity in every area of my life.
2. Father, guard my heart and mind against every form of impurity and compromise.
3. Holy Spirit, lead me to accountability relationships that build me up.
4. God, cultivate humility in me that keeps me teachable and dependent on You.
5. Lord, grant me peace and favour as I live above reproach.
6. Father, preserve my testimony and make me a witness of Your holiness.
7. Holy Spirit, empower me to overcome every temptation that threatens my reputation.
8. Lord, help me to be transparent and honest in all my dealings.
9. God, bless me with a good name that opens doors for ministry and influence.
10. Father, strengthen me to remain faithful and above reproach until the end.
