Focal Passage: 1 Timothy 4:1-10
We know that discipline in any area of our lives can be beneficial. Discipline in our finances allows us to pay our bills and live generous lives. Discipline in exercise helps us grow stronger. The more we practice good habits, the more benefits we see. This type of cause and effect works in whatever aspect we apply it. The same is true in our spiritual lives. As we learn to practice spiritual disciplines, we reap godliness in the process.
The world around us does not take a break from trying to distort the things of God. Social media is seething with half truths and full lies that want to distract us from what is actually true. Conspiracies spread like wildfire and lead us to wonder who and what can be trusted. This is not something new in our lifetime, but has been a struggle for humans since the garden of Eden.
What are we to do in response to the information overload and temptation to wander from truth? As Paul writes to Timothy, we are to amplify God’s truth and avoid “silly myths.” There is no denying how easy being diverted from truth can be. But, for the sake of our souls and the souls of those around us, the best thing we can do is be reminded of the truth of God in His word.
Instead of trying to decipher the next viral Facebook post, we would do better to focus on spiritual discipline. It is good for us to be disciplined and trained in godliness. We can do this by spending time in God’s word and in prayer. Spending time in community with other believers also helps us to grow in godliness. Instead of regularly turning to other sources, we are to turn to God. This kind of discipline is beneficial not just for this life, but for the one to come. We practice discipline because of the hope we have in God, who is the one who saves.