September 12, 2015

“Have nothing to do with profane myths and old wives’ tales. Train yourself in godliness, for, while physical training is of some value, godliness is valuable in every way, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. The saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance. For to this end we toil and struggle, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.” 1 Timothy 4:7b-10

“(Writing to a friend in a letter) Lift up your heart to Him even at your meals, or when you are in company; the least little remembrance will always be acceptable to Him. You need not cry very loud; He is nearer to us than we think. To be with G*d there is no need to be continually in church. Of our heart we may make an oratory, wherein to retire from time to time and with Him hold meek, humble, loving converse.” The Practice of the Presence of G*d Brother Lawrence (1611-1691) “For All The Saints” volume II (p. 817)

Train yourself in godliness. What an image. I think it is an image that can help many people find a stronger faith life. Although, I am not so naive to think that this is good for everyone. I realize that many people see the word “training” in a negative light because they have spent so much time training in their lives (for sporting events and other kinds of endeavors) that they are burned out by the idea. And yet, many people need a trainer to make any changes in their lives. They need someone or something to push them continually.

The good news is that we have a trainer just waiting to teach us — and that trainer is the Holy Spirit. In fact we cannot train up ourselves in godliness on our own — it takes the training and the support of the spirit. But, the Holy Spirit will not wake you up in the morning to get you motivated. You and I must remain open to the spirit, open to the presence of the spirit, and expecting the spirit to move just when we least expect it. That is how one is “trained up” by the Holy Spirit.

Pastor Dave