Bring it!

Scripture:
“…rather 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.”— 1 Timothy 4:7-8

Observation:
In these verses, Paul is giving instructions to Timothy for the body of believers. He tells us to train ourselves to be godly. Unlike physical training, which offers only short term benefits, godliness offers us rewards for now and eternity and in all aspects of our lives – not just our bodies.

Application:
This scripture really grabbed me as I read over it. I recently began P90x, a vigorous workout regimen that demands a lot of time in training my body – getting it stronger and healthier. It requires a good hour to hour and a half to complete 6 days a week, and so far I’ve been very dedicated, (although it has only been one week). It bewilders me to think how easy I can fit this training into my day, yet how hard it is to “find time” to spend just me and God. If it’s not physical training for you, maybe you can relate with me be some other activity you tend to always have time for (golf, movies or tv, shopping, napping). As humans, it is easy to be focused on things that only have short term or immediate effects towards our happiness. Paul reminds us that our top priority should be our training in godliness, in other words getting to know God better and in turn becoming more like Him. Godliness doesn’t just happen, but requires time in the Word, prayer and serving. The benefit of this training not only immediate satisfaction by the Holy Spirit, but a lasting peace and contentment and reward for all of eternity with Christ.

Prayer:
“God, help me to value my time with You and in Your word more than I value getting in good shape physically or anything else that lures my affections away from You. When it comes to pursuing You, I want to “bring it”. I want to run after You with all my heart, soul, mind and strength. Grant me the resolve to stay strong in my pursuit of You when I feel like slacking off or just being lazy.

— Jason Elam, worship pastor, Clinton campus