Monday, July 20 Let them serve as ministers, as they are free from accusation.—1 Tim. 3:10. Younger men must be evaluated, not by personal or cultural viewpoints, but by the measuring stick of God’s Word. (2 Tim. 3:16, 17) Unscriptural cultural views can hold back qualified brothers. In one country, a well-qualified ministerial servant was entrusted with weighty responsibilities. Although the elders in his congregation agreed that the young brother met the Scriptural qualifications of an elder to a reasonable degree, he was not recommended for appointment. A few older elders insisted that the brother looked too young to be viewed as an elder. Sadly, the brother was held back from appointment simply because of the way he looked. Reports indicate that this way of thinking affects many in various parts of the world. How important it is that we rely on the Scriptures rather than on our own viewpoints! That is the only way to obey Jesus and stop judging by the outward appearance.—John 7:24. w18.08 12 ¶16-17
I notice that not of all the elders are on the same socio-economic level in society, but that is not what counts. What is important is the heart motives and wanting to help others. Additionally, there is no substitute for life experiences and taking the time to understand others.