“Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives’ tales. Spend your time and energy in training yourself for spiritual fitness. Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise is much more important, for it promises a reward in both this life and the next. This is true, and everyone should accept it. We work hard and suffer much in order that people will believe the truth, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and particularly of those who believe.” 1 Timothy 4:7-10 (NLT)
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 the promise of life. Thank you for the hope we have in Christ.
O Lord, deliver us from values and rewards 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 his promise live to receive his reward,