December 08, 2018: SOAP #3292:  1Timothy 1-4

Scripture:  1Timothy (NIV) 4:7 Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. 8 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:  Training the physical body has value.  It has value in building strength and stamina.  A body that has been properly trained will have more energy and endurance.  Our bodies have been given to us by God, so it is proper to care for them and keep them in good working shape.

HOWEVER, the training of the physical body SHOULD NEVER take priority over the training of my inner-man (my will, my character, my attitude, my emotions) to be godly.

Even with the best training, this body is going to die.  Physical training cannot stop death.  But godliness not only has value for every aspect of my life on earth—it also has “promise” for heaven!

Application:  If I am serious about training my physical body, I can take specific actions, i.e. special diet, special exercises sessions, work with a trainer, etc.

If I am serious about training my inner-man to be godly, I can take specific actions, i.e.  daily Bible reading, daily prayer, pausing from time to time just to listen to what God may be saying, sharing my faith with others, finding a trusted friend who will give honest input, etc.

Prayer:   Lord, give me a trusted friend to help me grow in godliness.  And Lord, make me a trusted friend to help someone else grow in godliness. Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!