“Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. 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. This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance (and for this we labor and strive), that we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, and especially of those who believe.”
1 Timothy 4:7-10 (NIV)
Charles worked feverishly to complete his client’s assignment on time. He had been promised a large “per day” bonus, if the projected was finished ahead of schedule. This meant that the bonus amount would be multiplied by the number of days “ahead of schedule.” This project would earn him a ten-day bonus. He was already counting his profits. His wife was already planning a shopping spree.
Paul’s words to Pastor Timothy aren’t about economic gain, although godliness does affect our economic decisions. As believers, we understand that our profit is eternally tied to the promise of life. It is unfortunate that many people do not consider their lives very profitable. Is this an indication of an immature perspective? Paul teaches us that a godly lifestyle is profitable because it possesses the promise of life and hope in the living God. What a worthy and acceptable point of view.
Dear Father, thank you for your grace and mercy. Thank you for the hope we have in Christ. O Lord, deliver us from values and profits of this life. Grant to us the determination and fortitude to train ourselves, by your word, to be godly. In Jesus’ name I pray. AMEN
Let us praise God for the profits of life and hope and train ourselves to live godly lives,