Training For Gold

Categories: Devotional,Mark,1 Timothy

Would you prefer to be in good physical shape or in the best spiritual condition you can muster? Both?

The Apostle Paul said, “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” (1 Timothy 4:7-8).

The word Paul used in Greek that we translate as “train” came from a root word that often referred to gymnastics and the gymnasium.

And the word Paul used that we translate as “godliness” comes from a root that commonly referred to respect, mostly respect towards one’s parents.

Today Paul might put it this way, “Train yourself to be God-centered.”

We need such training because we are all born self-centered. That is why the Bible speaks of the need for a spiritual rebirth. That’s the only way a naturally self-centered person can become supernaturally God-centered.

And only then can a person love God with all their heart, mind, soul, and strength (Mark 12:30).

Does that sound like you? If it does, then you win gold.

Now that’s something to Celebrate!

Author: Toby Larson

Toby Larson leads Celebration International. He is a husband and father of 5. Whether he's teaching, hitting tennis balls, sailing a Hobie, serving in Asia, skiing on water or snow, Toby is passionate about the love of God and the love of life. Read more ...