Daily Devotion: Training To Be Godly

Scripture:
1 Timothy 4: 1-10

Main Verses:
1 Timothy 4: 7-8
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.

Observation:
Athletes participate in rigorous training, are disciplined, and are conscious of what they eat. Athletes spend time working out to build their endurance and strength. They must be disciplined and should follow a strict training schedule. They also need to follow their coach. They must watch their diet and make sure that they eat well-balanced meals. In many ways, Christians are similar with athletes. We strengthen our faith when we constantly trust God and let go of our worries. We spend time reading and studying the Bible, regularly stick to our devotion schedule, and listen to our pastor on Sundays or to online sermons by reputable preachers. A serious follower of Jesus does these things because he knows that training to be godly promises benefits for his spirit and in the life to come.

Application:
If we know the importance and blessings of training to be godly, then we should put a lot of time and exert more effort in heavenly things. Do we spend time communicating with God through devotion and prayer and learning about Him through His Word? Do we regularly go to church, not only when we like it, but automatically think about attending church on a Sunday? Do we exercise our faith by giving our problems, worries, and concerns to God and relying upon Him completely? We are not perfect, and I admit, there are times when I feel laziness seep through me. But we should not stop. We should continue to train towards godliness until we reach the perfection of our faith.

Prayer:
My Lord, I want to be like you. The way to perfection is not easy, and I have to train hard and discipline myself. But I believe that through the help of the Holy Spirit, I can conquer my weaknesses. Lord, when I forget my goal of achieving your likeness, please remind me. No, please rebuke me, so I won't go astray. There is nothing in this world that I would want but to be in Your presence. Search my heart, Lord, and hear my plea. This I ask in your Holy Name. AMEN.