Daily Devotional: 1 Timothy 4:7-8

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In view of what Jesus has accomplished in delivering us from our sin and redeeming us as his own, “what ought to be our manner of life? What should our lives, as those raised from the dead, be characterized by?”

The Christian rightly responds with new affections to glorify God, which occurs as we enjoy Him, trust Him, and obey Him. In 1 Timothy 4, Paul exhorts his disciple Timothy saying, “train yourself for godliness” (verse 7). Another translation says, “discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness.” This is a sobering exhortation, but altogether essential because genuine growth in godliness never occurs by accident; it is something we are to fervently pursue. Paul in Philippians 2 said to “work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” Giving thought, time, and prioritizing training toward godliness is evidence that God is at work in you and through you. In the command to “discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness,” Paul bases his rationale on the reality of the unparalleled benefit, as “godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” (1 Timothy 4:8).

We all need help in the pursuit of godliness. Likewise, we need encouragement and exhortation in HOW to train and discipline ourselves for the purpose of godliness. Appropriate training involves both what to avoid as well as what to whole-heartedly pursue.

Spring 2020 is a unique season in which the normal American life has  been disrupted and dialed back. We are learning how to live a new normal. More than ever, this is a time to live for who and what we were created for. Our goal, pursuit and purpose are nothing less than knowing and living for God Himself. The greatness of God and the goal of knowing Him and being conformed to His image must focus our lives. Finally, as those whose hope is placed on the living God who is our Savior, we are called to toil and strive together not in our own strength but in the strength of His grace (1 Timothy 4:10, 1 Corinthians 15:10).

Dear friends, in the ITC Core Seminar beginning this Tuesday evening from 8-9PM, we are going to devote time to be reminded of habits and disciplines that are essential in our love of God and love of others. Please join our live stream as we learn:
- How we must, both individually and as a body, prioritize the Scripture, Prayer and Fellowship in our pursuit of God.
- How this season of social distancing is an opportunity to grow significantly in our relationship with the Lord.
- The habits of grace and patterns of life we to must consider to redeem the time and make the most of this unique time we are living.

Let us fill our hearts, minds and souls with devotion to our Lord Jesus Christ and by His grace cultivate those habits that will help us know Him, love Him, and follow Him.