Spiritual Training for the Christian Life
For sometime now, I have been committed to physical training. I have no problems getting up to run while the rest of Jacksonville is still sleeping. In fact, I look forward to it. I have been thinking a lot about 1 Tim 4:8
“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.”
I want to be in shape both physically and spiritually. In our society, much emphasis is placed on physical fitness, but spiritual health is of far greater importance. There is value in keeping ourselves in shape physically. Generally, a person who is in good shape will have more energy and may enjoy better health than one who is not physically fit. The athlete who trains to play ball may be rewarded with a trophy and even if they aren’t, they often reap the benefit of being physically fit. But all of us grow older and our bodies age. No matter how fit we are, we will one day face the consequences of dwelling in a temporal body. Our physical health is susceptible to things like disease and injury. Even those who are a picture of health and vitality can arrive at the end of their lives without a moments notice. We must major on being in good spiritual shape. Just as, highly skilled and talented athletes lose their abilities if the muscles aren’t toned by constant use, we too will waste away from lack of spiritual practice and nourishment. Those who want to be godly must exercise themselves unto godliness; it requires a constant exercise. We must not only cease to do evil, but we must learn to do well. Such training takes time, dedication, energy, continued practice, and vision. We must study the Bible, make a habit of prayer, and fellowship with other believers regularly, if we expect to grow in godliness. We must all commit ourselves to the Christian life. Those who are truly godly will not be losers, for godliness will be of use to us our whole life. It has the promise of the life that is now, and of that which is to come. Our most important opportunities may come when we least expect them. Let’s be ready by having a right relationship with God. What is your goal? It’s time to go into training for something that lasts.
I want to honor God and center my desires on Him. I don’t want my goals to become more important than my faith. I want to look forward with anticipation and excitement to my times with the Lord, as I do running. Oh, how much more I will get from the Lord than I get from running. I believe my love for Him will grow as I strive towards the goal of spiritual strength. I pray that my life will attract people to Christ.
Come and shine your Spirit’s light
upon these darkened eyes
Once again reveal Your majesty
May I behold the splendor
Of the great Redeeming Lamb
The one whose wondrous grace
possesses me
Lord how I am longing
‘Cause I want to know you
And the love that passes comprehension
Know You and the power of the cross
I want to know you
And the glory of your resurrection
Lord I am crying out for more of you
Come and open up my ears
To hear your glorious truth
For Lord your words are my soul’s very life
For I consider everything in this world as a loss
Compared to You my treasure and delight
Lord how I am longing
Lord, thank you for taking my place on the cross. I am so undeserving of your goodness, patience, and unfailing love towards me. You have blessed me beyond measure. Forgive me for my lack of devotion. I pray that you will give me strength to live for you as I try to change. I want to pursue you with athletic intensity. Lord give me a passion for You. I pray that this blog will bring honor and glory to your name and will be an encouragement to others. Amen.
