Because I Live: Part 4

    Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; [8] for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. [9] The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance. [10] For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe. 1 Tim. 4:7-10      St. Paul's words here are to encourage Timothy (and us also) by stating that bodily training (excercise and the like) are of value....in THIS LIFE.  But he goes on, writing that godliness is better.  First of all it is not just beneficial for you, but also your godliness will benefit others too.  Secondly, and more in line with my theme for the week, godliness is beneficial not just for this life, but also reaching into life eternal. 
     Because that sounds a little strange [that your godliness now can benefit your future eternity] Paul goes on to write "The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance."  As if to say, "Hey, this is important!  Learn it!  Love It!  LIVE IT!
    To help us live it, Paul gives further advice--"To THIS end we toil and strive."  Well, that doesn't sound so good!  But we have a powerful reason for toiling and striving toward accomplishing this on a daily basis...."Because we have our hope set on THE LIVING GOD, the Savior of all people, especially those who believe."
     Our lives are full of things that we must do to maintain our bodies, for health, life, stamina, and just to be able to do anything.  Excercising, eating right, stress relief, rest and sleep.  All of these things are important (as we keep hearing) to properly maintain our bodies, so that they can work properly, and we can live.
     What Paul points out is that there is something of even greater importance for us....to be godly, which is even more valuable for our lives.   In fact it has value for other people's lives as well.
     As we live our lives day to day, let's try and add some godliness-(actively pursuing God's purposes). You can start by being in His Word daily to find out what His will for your life is!
     Thanks for reading, and God bless your pursuit of godliness in your life!