HIGHLIGHT
1 Timothy 4:7–8 (ESV): 7 Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; 8 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.
EXPLAIN
1 Timothy is a very personal letter from Paul to his son in the faith in which Paul encourages Timothy in his calling as a minister of the gospel and duties as a pastor.
One specific issue Paul challenged Timothy repeatedly about in this letter were some in the church who were focused on trivial issues – myths, genealogies, unbiblical rules such as forbidding marriage and abstinence, etc. – thinking that these led to spirituality.
Paul instead urged Timothy to devote himself to studying and proclaiming God’s Word. While physical exercise is good, training ourselves for godliness is much more valuable.
APPLY
A danger the believer can fall into is thinking that because they have read the Bible all the way – or even 10 times through, because they have attended Sunday School for so many years – or even taught Sunday School, because they have gone through this or that class, or went to the altar so many times… they have “arrived” spiritually.
They know it all. They’ve seen it all. If you can persuade them, they might be willing to teach what they know. Otherwise, they are not interested in learning or teaching, but only want to “experience” God.
They want to be entertained.
The secret to continuing spiritual victory and vitality is ongoing training in godliness.
RESPOND
Heavenly Father, help me to be disciplined and faithful in “godliness” training, building up my strength, stamina, and wisdom in how to be more like Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen.