A typical scene at a contemporary gym presents the scene of people exercising with various machines and equipment, or just by different body movements. They go through a steady and systematic routine aimed at building up their muscles, burning off the calories or generally keeping fit. I am reminded of what the Bible says in 1 Timothy 4:8 “Training your body helps you in some ways, but serving God helps you in every way by bringing you blessings in this life and in the future life, too.” (New Century Version). The Amplified version puts it this way, “For physical training is of some value, but godliness (spiritual training) is of value in everything and in every way, since it holds promise for the present life and for the life to come.” The operational word in each translation is training, and training refers to an intentional build up or gathering of information and resources aimed at increasing capacity for various purposes.
Both for our physical and spiritual lives, it is obvious now, more than ever before, that we need to develop and build up the required ‘muscles’ or capacity. This, coupled with the grace of God, puts us in good stead to excel in every area of life. A constant walk with God and study of the Bible are key components of this capacity building exercise. We are encouraged to "search" the Scripture to receive a revelation of divine truth. The Apostle Paul, in his charge to Timothy gives emphasis to this need; 2 Tim 3:16-17 “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.” (NLT). When we are taught and imbibe the training, we would know how to apply wisdom in our relationships, business or ministry; we will not fall prey to deceptions or temptations of the enemy. This points to spiritual growth and maturity. Ephesians 4:14-15 puts it this way “Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won’t be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth. Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.” (NLT)
No matter at what stage you are in your walk with God, it is time to grow up and build up more capacity to overcome the challenges of our contemporary physical and spiritual lives. The ultimate goal is to live a victorious Christian life, now and with the hope of eternity with God, thereafter. Our five-part series for the month of October, “Build Up”, will help us discover the truth in God’s word on how best to navigate the journey. Join us this and every Sunday as we explore the theme.
God bless you.
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