Good morning!
Text: 1 Timothy 4-6; Psalm 119:65-80
1 Timothy 4:7-8 had a great impact upon my early Christian walk. It was the foundation text of an adult Sunday school class I took, one of my first. It says,
“Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.”
As I read this today, it is reminding me that my spiritual fitness requires training just like athletic fitness. That word “train” is the Greek word we get “gymnasium” from. If we choose to run a marathon, we must build up to it over time with a regimen of daily running. If we want to be strong, we will lift weights over a period of time, regularly and with commitment. There will be days when we don’t feel like working out, but we must choose to do so anyway. Disciplines need to be exercised.
Bible reading, study, memorization, prayer, and other disciplines are used by the Lord to develop our spiritual strength and stamina. But, just like physical training, we must keep at it. It requires that we maintain a commitment to daily time with the Lord in the Word and prayer.
Now, daily habits of discipline come easily for me. But, to be honest with you, I am feeling a little “flabby” these days. I needed the reminder from 1 Timothy. Thank you Lord.
in Him, Mike