Reflecting God Devotions for Holy Living – Thursday, 26 December 2013 “Keep Moving” Scripture 1 Timothy False Asceticism 4

Reflecting God Devotions for Holy Living – Thursday, 26 December 2013 “Keep Moving” Scripture 1 Timothy False Asceticism

4: Now the Spirit expressly says that in later[a] times some will renounce the faith by paying attention to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, 2 through the hypocrisy of liars whose consciences are seared with a hot iron. 3 They forbid marriage and demand abstinence from foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. 4 For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected, provided it is received with thanksgiving; 5 for it is sanctified by God’s word and by prayer.

A Good Minister of Jesus Christ

6 If you put these instructions before the brothers and sisters,[b] you will be a good servant[c] of Christ Jesus, nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound teaching that you have followed. 7 Have nothing to do with profane myths and old wives’ tales. Train yourself in godliness, 8 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.

Footnotes:

a. 1 Timothy 4:1 Or the last

b. 1 Timothy 4:6 Gk brothers

c. 1 Timothy 4:6 Or deacon

“Keep Moving” by Greg Mason

I know lots of people with arthritis. In fact, I have it myself. It is a peculiar disease. Most know it is painful. It is interesting that one of the hardest things to do when one is afflicted with arthritis is to exercise. But one of the best things for those who suffer with the disease is to get moving, and to keep moving.  The more you move and exercise, the easier exercise becomes. “Keep moving” the doctor says.

Godliness is an internal reality that is based on an intimate relationship with a Holy God. It is, according to the original language, an inner piety. But it is also a responsibility. The Bible is full of reminders that whatever is of the heart will be expressed in the outer life. Whatever we value inwardly, will project itself outwardly.

Paul tells Timothy that while physical movement or exercise is of benefit-moving spiritually in godliness, is even more so. The discipline of godly living is precious because its essence is peace, joy, love, hope. These are the practices of godliness. What a value to life here and now, but also in the assurance of life to come. Keep moving.

Hymn for Today:

“Stepping in the Light” by Eliza E. Hewitt

1. Trying to walk in the steps of the Savior,

Trying to follow our Savior and King;

Shaping our lives by His blessed example,

Happy, how happy, the songs that we bring.

Refrain:

How beautiful to walk in the steps of the Savior,

Stepping in the light, stepping in the light,

How beautiful to walk in the steps of the Savior,

Led in paths of light.

2. Pressing more closely to Him Who is leading,

When we are tempted to turn from the way;

Trusting the arm that is strong to defend us,

Happy, how happy, our praises each day.

Refrain:

How beautiful to walk in the steps of the Savior,

Stepping in the light, stepping in the light,

How beautiful to walk in the steps of the Savior,

Led in paths of light.

3. Walking in footsteps of gentle forbearance,

Footsteps of faithfulness, mercy, and love,

Looking to Him for the grace freely promised,

Happy, how happy, our journey above.

Refrain:

How beautiful to walk in the steps of the Savior,

Stepping in the light, stepping in the light,

How beautiful to walk in the steps of the Savior,

Led in paths of light.

4. Trying to walk in the steps of the Savior,

Upward, still upward, we follow our Guide;

When we shall see Him, “the King in His beauty,”

Happy, how happy, our place at His side.

Refrain:

How beautiful to walk in the steps of the Savior,

Stepping in the light, stepping in the light,

How beautiful to walk in the steps of the Savior,

Led in paths of light.

Thought for Today:

“I didn’t keep the news of your ways

    a secret, didn’t keep it to myself.

I told it all, how dependable you are, how thorough.

    I didn’t hold back pieces of love and truth

For myself alone. I told it all,

    let the congregation know the whole story.”(Psalm 40:10).

Prayer Needs:

Many people in Hungary will come to know Jesus the Christ [Yeshua the Messiah] and receive the fullness of the Holy Spirit.

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