Pursuing godly living
If you explain these things to the brothers and sisters, Timothy, you will be a worthy servant of Christ Jesus, one who is nourished by the message of faith and the good teaching you have followed. Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives’ tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly. “Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come. 1 Timothy 4:6-8
Pursuing godliness in the life of every believer should be the goal. From the text, this is what the apostle Paul is challenging Timothy to pursue. If you have a strong desire to pursue godliness, then constant spiritual nourishment is a must. We gain wisdom and understanding from the nourishment we receive in meditating from God’s word. Substituting ministry work with daily spiritual nourishment from devoting time to study God’s word will weaken a child of God spiritually. With the busyness of our fast-paced life and add to this is the complication of life’s issues can prevent us to be consistent to have a daily time with God. There is no such thing as “instant godliness.” This is why Paul used the phrase “train yourself to be godly” as he cautioned Timothy. Once you ignore your commitment to God to spend time with Him for renewal and spiritual growth through prayer and His word, you will lose effectiveness in living your Christian life. This could lead to being easily persuaded by religious fads and buy into “godless ideas and old wives’ tales.” This is why it is crucial to practice spiritual disciplines. You should not take for granted your spiritual walk with God. Even if you are engaging in religious activities, it could still lead to lukewarm spirituality. This is why God rebuked Christians in the church of Laodicea and admonished them to make up their minds and be consistent in their spiritual walk. “But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth!” (Revelation 3:16). Cultivate your spiritual intimacy with God by always reminding yourself of your love to Him. Paul reminded Timothy to pursue the life God gave him for in this life alone he will have a sure hope. “This is why we work hard and continue to struggle, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people and particularly of all believers” (1 Timothy 4:10). Be aware of false and distracting doctrines and teachings that disguise them as spiritual truth. Stay away from them and warn others as well especially those who are young in their faith. Training ourselves to be godly will provide us the tools we need to safeguard our beliefs and will help us influence others in their faith and walk with God.
Blessings,
