Training for Godliness

1 Timothy 4

​As we walk with the Lord and serve Him, we must move into new territory and not stay the same spiritually.
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“There are new truths to learn, new battles to fight, and new victories to win. ‘Restlessness is discontent’, said Thomas Alva Edison, ‘and discontent is the first necessity of progress. Show me a thoroughly satisfied man and I will show you a failure.’” Warren Wiersbe

Satan is at work spreading false doctrine, and his ministers are already in the church.

“For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. 15 So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds. 2 Cor. 11:13–15 (ESV)

God’s servants must preach the truth and fight the devil’s lies. Declaring war may not make us popular, but it will keep us faithful.

“Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, 2 through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared, 3 who forbid marriage and require abstinence from foods that God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. 4 For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, 5 for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer.” 1 Timothy 4:1–5 (ESV)

If believers would put as much effort into the spiritual life as they do their recreation and hobbies, what a difference it would make!

“If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed. 7 Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; 8 for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. 9 The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance. 10 For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.” 1 Timothy 4:6–10 (ESV)

Physical exercise is important, but spiritual exercise is even more essential. Both discipline and devotion are needed to make a winning athlete and an effective Christian. Our passion for and pursuit of spiritual growth should be greater than our drive to be physically fit. Our souls need a regular workout program. You don’t become godly by chance.

Dr. Tony Evans writes, “Godliness—becoming more like God in actions, attitudes, character, and conduct—should be the Christian’s goal. Listening to silly myths (popular, speculative fables and unbiblical stories promoted by false teachers) produces nothing of value in a person’s life, but the Word of God produces godliness when obeyed.”

He continues, “Given the value of the reward, Paul urges Timothy to labor and strive in the pursuit of godliness—both for himself and for those he serves… The cross made all humankind savable. But He is the Savior especially of those who believe—those who have received the gift of eternal life through placing faith alone in Christ alone.”

“Command and teach these things. 12 Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. 13 Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching. 14 Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you. 15 Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress. 16 Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.” 1 Timothy 4:11–16 (ESV)

It takes real effort to grow in the Christian life and to be successful in Christian service. God asks for our wholehearted surrender, no matter what the cost. Ponder these admonitions that Paul wrote to Timothy and see how they apply in your life.

Are you daily surrendering to Jesus and His calling and mission for your life? How is Satan seeking to destroy you and your mission? Since Satan pounces on the area you are most vulnerable, what area do you need to most up your training regimen to ward Him off? Where do seem to have the most difficultly in your spiritual growth? Where are you presently serving?

Today know that you have an enemy that seeks to devour you. Prepare yourself for battle by developing in the spiritual disciplines that protect you from your enemy, the devil. Prayer and the Word of God are your most powerful weapons.

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