Faith Muscles

" . . . train yourself to be godly. ⁸For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. - 1 Timothy 4:7-8

The NASB translates the end of verse 7 this way "train yourself for the purpose of godliness."

Just as physical health requires diligence and sacrifice so does our spiritual life. Godliness cannot be obtained through idleness and indifference toward spiritual things. Godliness requires that we regularly apply ourselves in activities that exercise our faith. The list is long. Reading the Word of God, intercessory prayer, loving others, caring for those in need, utilizing our gifts, giving sacrificially, serving in the local church, building relationships with lost people for the purpose of sharing the gospel with them, fasting, discipling someone, memorizing scripture, and the list goes on.

We just completed our study of Galatians where Paul reminds his readers that "A man reaps what he sows." (Gal. 6:7) If we don't want to coast through life on spiritual fumes we must be willing to put in the time and effort to train ourselves spiritually.

Father, I want to be more godly. I want to experience more peace and joy in my relationship with you. I want desperately to experience victory over sin. I need your help to grow strong spiritually. Increase my appetite for your Word. Give me endurance in prayer. Give me the resolve to maintain consistent spiritual habits.

Pursuing godliness with you,
Matt