Good morning.
Some of us go to a physical fitness center while some choose an outdoor exercise routine. Especially during the holidays, all the extra food is wonderful; and how much more is the exercise we ought to do! No matter what age, physical fitness has its advantages. But the Scriptures say spiritual fitness is even more important.
In his first letter to the young Timothy, the apostle Paul writes:
If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed. 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. That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and especially of those who believe (1 Tim 4:6-10).
When Paul says to Timothy, “If you point these things out…you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus” (1 Tim 4:6), what “things” is he referring to?
Though I’ve not stated it in the verses above, Paul opened his letter by saying, “Command certain people not to teach false doctrines” (1:3).
Now he returns to that theme: “Some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons” (4:1).
They were sliding backwards, or were just comfortably numb to the things that they should not have neglected. Bringing it forward, what evidence in your life points towards your spiritual fitness?
Sometimes we focus too much on the externals. For example, if we move away from regular Bible reading, prayer, and the good habit of meeting together, then in those times, beware of false religion that impersonates genuine faith.
I’m excited that Doug and the worship team will be facilitating worship this weekend. Then we will be continuing to explore the life of Joseph together in The With-God life sermon series. I hope to see you!
In Him,
Seth
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