Nourished On The Words Of The Faith

Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will renounce the faith by paying attention to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, through the hypocrisy of liars whose consciences are seared with a hot iron. They forbid marriage and demand abstinence from foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected, provided it is received with thanksgiving; for it is sanctified by God’s word and by prayer.

If you put these instructions before the brothers and sisters, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound teaching that you have followed. Have nothing to do with profane myths and old wives’ tales. Train yourself in godliness, for, while physical training is of some value, godliness is valuable in every way, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. The saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance. For to this end we toil and struggle, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.

These are the things you must insist on and teach.

1 Timothy 4:1-11

Life is an endurance race. There are any number of things that can cause us to stumble and fall. Sometimes we get back up, and sometimes the race ends right there. Spiritual fitness takes much more than a relaxed approach to live a God-honoring life.

Our bodies and our minds are to be dedicated to God and prepared for His service. The goal is not spiritual muscle-flexing but godliness – a life that is pleasing to the Lord. Vigorous study of the Word, focused prayer, and bodily discipline are all part of the process.

How well we train greatly affects how well we run our race of life.

Godly exercise is the key to godly character.

Our Daily Bread – November 4, 2007