1 Timothy 4:8-10 Godliness vs. Bodily Discipine

for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and  also  for the  life  to come.  It is a trustworthy statement deserving full acceptance.  For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of believers. 

Observation

Godliness is not our natural state. Our natural state is to think and act selfishly. Godliness is only accomplished through continual pursuit of God. The primary ways being through His Word, Prayer & Praise, and Biblical Community.

Paul compares the pursuit of godliness to physical discipline, the methods are similar, but the result of godly spiritual discipline is so much greater than all that we can imagine. Paul says it has a promise not only in this life but also into eternity. Bodily discipline cannot offer the same result. Paul is not demeaning bodily discipline, nor authorizing a lack of it, he is simply stating that there is a more important discipline with a greater reward. 

Then Paul emphasizes this truth by saying this is a trustworthy statement. He tells us to labor, strive, pursue, our Hope, which is Christ Jesus. If we do this we can't go wrong.

Application

This word is so encouraging to me this morning, because the world really emphasizes physical health. But the healthy standard touted in social media is unobtainable for so many (including me). It is ok for me to care about my physical health through exercise and eating right, but my highest priority is a pursuit of godliness; that is the discipline that matters the most. Through His Word, God reminded me today that I'm doing the right thing and to keep on. More than that though, it fills me a greater desire for more of Him in me.

Prayer

Father, thank You for leading me. Thank You for a passion to know and pursue You. You are the Living Hope and my Savior. I love You!