How to Train for Godliness

February 16, 2023

By Brooke Holt

“Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; 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” (1 Timothy 4:7-8).

Years ago, I began my own coaching business which I named Cross Train. While Cross Train was developed to coach women for triathlons, running events, and ultimately the Faith, Fitness, and Fellowship boot camps, the company’s primary purpose was to train women in godliness. When the Lord called me to this unusual ministry, he gave me a vision of women straddling a white picket fence with beautiful green grass on both sides. The picture perplexed me, and I asked the Lord what he wanted me to know. The Lord clearly communicated to me that he wanted me to use my coaching business to teach women to fully live out their faith. Far too many of his children were trying to live with one foot in the world and one foot in faith. My call was to teach them how to plant both feet in the faith and from that foundation, to walk into the world.

Yes, this interesting call excited me! After praying, I landed on this passage from Timothy as the undergirding of Cross Train. We would train together three days a week while I would provide workout plans for off days. But beyond this physical training was the real training. Every session began with a devotion and prayer. I had themes for every season and regularly counseled, taught, and prayed for my trainees. What an amazing season in my life!

Throughout the epistles of 1st and 2nd Timothy, the Apostle Paul admonishes his prodigy.in the faith, Timothy. Paul emphasizes that while physical training has immense value, spiritual training has eternal value. We know what physical training looks like, but what does spiritual training entail?

Just as every good physical workout begins with a plan so do spiritual workouts. A child of God needs to know him and to enjoy a relationship with him. You get to know God through his Word, prayer, corporate and personal worship, small group studies, service, and breaking bread together. You get to know the Lord as you ask him to reveal himself to you. Then look, listen, and apply what he reveals to you.

Paul reminds Timothy and us today that physical training is good for this world; it is important as God calls us to take care of our bodies. But more important is caring for the Spirit within us. Spiritual training has value not only for today but also for eternity.

Reflection:

Are you ready to get serious about your training? If so, would you be willing to use this Lenten season and commit to daily Bible readings, prayer, and godly fellowship? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Recommended Resource:

The Crucified Life small group Christian study is designed to reflect upon the Seven Last Words of Christ from the cross and what they mean for us today. Walk the road of Calvary with Jesus in order to grow closer to Him. The Crucified Life small group study examines human suffering as it is mirrored in Christ’s suffering on the cross and what His seven last words say to a hurting world. Find out incredible insights into these words as Jesus teaches us, even in death, how we can use our suffering and triumph over it for His glory. Begin your Crucified Life today.