1 Timothy 4- 06.16.22
SCRIPTURE: 1 Timothy 4:8 AMP
“For physical training is of some value, but godliness (spiritual training) is of value in everything and in every way, since it holds promise for the present life and for the life to come.”
OBSERVATION:
In this portion of his letter to Timothy, Paul emphasizes the Importance of Spiritual Training.
UNDERSTANDING:
I remember hearing a Pastor once say, “The only thing we bring into Heaven with us is our Character”. That statement stunned me because I had never thought about it before. Yet, so many scriptures—like this one, speak to that very Truth. Our godliness is of value, holding Promise for the Life to come.
Clearly, our spiritual training matters. We will be experiencing the consequences/benefits in THIS life—and—for an eternity.
Spiritual Training “exercise” is not easy; we must “labor” and “strive”.
“That is why we “labor” and “strive”, because we have put our hope in the living God” (1 Timothy 4:10a NIV)
The word “Strive” is actually an athletic word from which we get our English word “Agonize”. It is a picture of an athlete “Straining” and “Striving” to give their absolute BEST to Win. In case there is any doubt, all Christ Followers are IN this race. In order to succeed, we must “work” at it—by the Grace of Jesus AND to the Glory of God.
LIFE APPLICATION:
From the Passion Translation in Hebrews 12, we are told to “Run Life’s Marathon Race with Passion and Determination, for the Path has been already MARKED our before us” (vs 1). The further explanation tells that this “marathon” race may feel like an “Obstacle” course at times. The Greek word “Agona” means agony or conflict. The assumption is that the “Race” will Not be easy, BUT the Proper Path IS set before us!
“Consider it nothing but joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you fall into various trials.
Be assured that the testing of your faith [through experience] produces endurance
leading to spiritual maturity, and inner peace.
And let endurance have its perfect result and do a thorough work, so that you may be perfect and completely developed [in your faith], lacking in nothing.” (James 1: 2-4 NIV)
Lord Jesus,
Thank You that YOU are the author and finisher of our faith. Thank YOU that your Love for us is deeper than we will ever fathom. Thank YOU that the trials we experience are not for our harm, but to Grow our faith and produce inner peace that is dependent on YOU and not outward circumstances. I pray YOU will develop me more and more to Experience this DEEP Joy in the midst of trials. Thank YOU for what you have been showing me lately. How many unexpected things have turned for good that seemed like stressful challenges recently. Give me Your Strength to persevere when I am weak and help me to be disciplined in Your word and prayer as my continual well spring and Joy. Thank YOU for Your Faithfulness, Lord.
Tina L Kudelka