On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness; for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. It is a trustworthy statement deserving full acceptance. For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of believers. 1 Timothy 4:7b- 10
If I gave half the attention to my spiritual formation as I do to physical (bodily) formation, my salvation would be secure and those around me would be impacted greatly. That’s what the apostle Paul is telling Timothy.
Pastors in particular, are instructed to be disciplined as we labor and strive in godliness. We are to be constantly nourishing God’s people on the words of faith and sound doctrine which come from the Bible. Our lives will then be on display “in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe”.
How about me… what are my disciplines and efforts towards godliness? What work has God done in me in the areas of speech, conduct, love, faith and purity?
God, as this day begins (lol, in Hawaii)- I thank you for Your goodness and mercy, love and patience. Help me set the pattern of my life toward godliness so that I would always be useful in Your kingdom. Call upon me often for Your purposes.
