A couple of weeks ago, I was discussing these words from 1 Timothy 4:7-8 with some friends:
train yourself to be godly. For 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.
While we were talking, I was thinking about how much I liked that the writer said that physical training has some value. I agree, I like to work out, I feel like it makes a difference. I liked even more the idea that godliness has value for all things, not just for some after life, but for this present life too. I agree, if godliness has no value for today, then what’s the point. So I get to work out my body and it makes a difference and I get to exercise my godliness and it makes a difference. I like that.
Until the conversation turned to questions. What is “training in godliness”? How do you train? What do you do? Help.
Then the suggestion came, “Steve, why don’t you blog, helping us understand what this means.” Well, here you go. This is the first post, a list of things that I think matter.
- We need to know what the goal is. If we have no idea what we hope to be or become in our “godliness training” we will quit.
- When you first begin, it will be awkward, it will hurt, and you will be sore.
- It will take time.
- Choose activities you enjoy. If you hate getting up early to read the Bible, don’t do it.
- Set realistic goals. ”I will start praying 5 hours a day beginning tomorrow,” will certainly fail.
- Recognize and celebrate progress.
- Don’t beat yourself up for setbacks or bad days.
- Find a training partner.
- You don’t have to wait for New Years, you can begin right now.
- and coming in at #10….Confess that “church” has become an idol.
More on all of these next time…starting with 10.
