Respect in ministry is not demanded — it is developed.

In 1 Timothy 4, Paul tells Timothy not to let anyone look down on him because of his age. But he doesn’t tell him to defend himself. He tells him to set an example.

Leadership credibility does not come from personality, volume, or title. It comes from character. From consistency. From growth.

There will always be things you cannot control — how people perceive you, how quickly they trust you, how they respond to your leadership. But you can control your integrity, your diligence, your faithfulness, and your spiritual growth.

Paul says, “Give yourself wholly… so that everyone may see your progress.”

God does not require perfection — but He does expect progress.

If you stay faithful, stay humble, stay growing — your life will speak louder than your critics.

Lead by example. Let your character preach.