Training and exercise

25 And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown.
26 Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air.
27 But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.
- 1 Cor 9:25-27(NKJV)

7b … and exercise yourself toward godliness.
8 For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.
- 1 Tim 4:7b-8(NKJV)

The bible never regards the journey to a fully developed stature of a Godly man as an instantaneous flight, rather, this text tells us to exercise or train ourselves to Godliness. This involves practices similar to the form of physical training and exercise observed by athletes. But the thought does not simply imply, of any necessity (as some practice), a requirement of harsh treatments of the body, or fastings; of which, it has already been said that such have no profit in curbing of evil desires.

These things indeed have an appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion, false humility, and neglect of the body, but are of no value against the indulgence of the flesh.
- Col 2: 23(NKJV)

Athletes refuse themselves certain personal indulgences to keep their senses sharp, and their bodies fit. But Paul tells Timothy to refuse and reject ungodly and unnecessary conversations because they yield unrighteousness and foster strife (2 Tim 2:16,23). Athletes, stunts men and the likes of them also train and adapt their bodies to be able to perform certain extraordinary feats by consistent practice. In Heb 5:14, we learn that by usage we have our senses exercised to discern good from evil.

15 Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.
16 Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.
- 1 Tim 4: 15-16(NKJV)

Paul asks timothy to meditate on (to ponder over; to engage his mind on) and to devote his life to his responsibilities and to sound doctrine; the performance of a trainee depends largely on adherence to instructions and the rules of the sport. Likewise as believers and as ministers of God, we must train ourselves diligently to be able to rightly divide the word of truth.

16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness,
17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
- 2 Tim 3: 16-17(ESV)

In conclusion, as practicing Christians, we consistently refuse sinful or selfish indulgencies and influences, we learn and meditate on God’s word, to know how to apply ourselves to his will and by these, we will be more effective than ever in teaching and guiding others in the things of faith & Godliness, not that alone, we would also be blessed in this life and eternity.

For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.
- Gal 6:8(NKJV)

Devotional Prayer

Lord I thank you, for the blessedness of believers in Christ Jesus, because as I do your will, exercising myself in godliness no matter the cost, I make progress and I have joy and peace inestimable and the promise of everlasting Life.

Share this post on: