Grace Covenant Family Devotions

September 29, 2010

1 Timothy 4
Pastor Stan Wilson

Earlier this year, I became highly motivated to become more physically fit. The spare tire I was wearing around my waist was becoming increasingly uncomfortable. I found that I was winded after climbing a flight of stairs. I was increasingly sluggish throughout the day, and the mirror had become my enemy.

Finally one day, it happened. I decided that enough was enough. I knew that something had to change, so I took action. I changed my diet and joined the gym. It was amazing what began to happen once I established a proper diet, partnered with a consistent routine of cardio and weights. As I began to take the initiative to limit my portions and exert myself physically, the spare tire began to decrease and muscles began to increase. I had more strength, stamina and energy throughout the day and that flight of stairs became a non-issue.

Physical development and spiritual development are very similar. In each, growth can only occur when there is exertion and proper diet. In 1 Timothy 4:7 (NLT), Paul directed Timothy to “train towards godliness.” It’s interesting to note that the word “godliness” comes from the old English word – Godlikeness – which means to have the character and attitude of God. Paul’s directive to Timothy was to spiritually exert himself in a way that would cause the development of the character and attitude of God within. The same directive applies to you and me. The goal of our lives should be to “train towards godliness” and see the ongoing development of the character and attitude of God evident and working in our lives.

Are you spiritually sluggish and lacking in this area? Are you carrying around a spare tire of spiritual flab? If so, it’s time to take action. Decide that enough is enough. Take the initiative to change your diet and join the spiritual gym. Commit to a consistent routine of disciplines that includes the study of God’s Word, prayer, fasting, meditation and listening to God. When you commit to this routine, you’ll be amazed as you watch your spiritual muscles grow. Very soon you will begin to see the likeness of God as it is being formed in you.

A Wilson, N.C. native, Pastor Stan “returned home” in December 2007 from Simi Valley, California, where he served five years as the executive pastor, then seven years as senior pastor of Sonrise Christian Fellowship.