HOLY HABITS
Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives' tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly. "Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come." This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it. This is why we work hard and continue to struggle, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people and particularly of all believers.
1 Timothy 4:7-10 (NLT)
Some people simply love to argue. This has always been true, but never has it been more evident than in recent years with the rise of social media engagement. Don't believe me? Check the comment section on the next video you watch or article you read. Having tense online interactions has, unfortunately, become par for the course. Some people even pride themselves on it!
Certainly, we're called to stand for truth. But how easily can we get sucked into the vortex of arguments over godless ideas? Superstition? Wild fabrications with no basis in reality. Christian brother and sister—this is not for us. We must reject this course of action and pursue holiness.
Paul goes on to speak of the value of training for godliness, going as far as to say that it's better than physical training. Now, some of us love our workout regimen. Running, lifting, competing—whatever it takes to get that heart rate elevated and be healthy. But are you willing to do whatever it takes to grow your faith and be spiritually healthy?
Well, how does one go about that? Great question! I'm glad you asked. First and foremost is daily surrender and submission to the Lordship of Christ. Simply acknowledging His rightful place as Lord. From there, it's a matter of practicing the spiritual disciplines. Scripture intake. Prayer. Fasting. Just start with those three. Be honest with yourself—are you making these a priority? You don't have to memorize the entirety of the Old Testament. Start with reading a chapter or two. You don't have to spend four hours prostrate on the ground in prayer before the sun comes up. Set a few reminders or alarms on your phone to stop and pray for a few minutes throughout the day. You don't have to fast for a month, sustaining yourself on water and honey. You can start with a meal or two one day a week. The point is to simply start—then keep going.
APPLICATION: What step can you take to grow your spiritual disciplines? Reflect upon this, and then take that first step! Remember, it doesn't have to be perfect right out of the gate. Just begin!
PRAYER: Lord, help me as I seek to grow in my walk with You. I want to be holy as You are holy. As I seek to live a spiritually disciplined life, empower me with Your Spirit. In Jesus' name, amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?