~ Training Opportunities ~

[Lani]

Read: 2 Peter 1:2-8
2 Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,
3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:
4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;
6 And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness;
7 And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.
8 For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.


"Train yourself in godliness, for, while physical training is of some value, godliness is valuable in every way." 1 Timothy 4:7-8 (NRSV)



Recently I went to a gym. It was impressive! There was a training aid for every possible purpose to develop strength and endurance in back, legs, arms, chest, shoulders, thighs, or any other muscles. The only thing missing was a personal trainer.

Have acquainted myself with the equipment, I looked around and noticed all kids of people in the gym. Only one or two looked like body builders I have seen in pictures. Some body shapes were thin, some were much heavier; and some were in between. They were of all ages too - simply ordinary people who realized that it is a good idea to exercise for our health and physical well-being.

What I saw in that gym reminded me of the possibilities I have to do something for my spiritual health and well-being as well. God has given us so many "means of grace" - channels through which God helps us to develop in our Christian life. These include public worship, Bible study, Holy Communion, personal and community prayer, and fasting, among others. When I need a spiritual "personal trainer," I know I can find one in church or among experienced Christian friends.



Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to care for both our physical and spiritual health. Amen

Prayer Focus of Day: For more discipline in praying and reading the Bible.

Thought for the Day:Our bodies and our spirits need regular nourishment.

Story shared by: H Vaxby (Russia)
Source: Upper Room Daily Devotional 7/8/11