Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance. That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and especially of those who believe.

1 Timothy 4:7-10

For the third trustworthy saying, Paul focuses on fitness. Having noted the importance of physical training, Paul highlights how our spiritual fitness is of greater value. He makes it clear that training in godliness requires us to ‘labor and strive’ (v 10) – terms that were synonymous with wrestling. Timothy’s defense against the godlessness that was infiltrating the church was training in godliness (v 7).

Each city has many fitness centers. That's why people attach great importance to physical health. But spiritual health in the Lord is far more important than that for we immitate Jesus through it. Ultimately, we glorify God through our lives. Therefore, we must train godliness in this ungodly world as of the first importance.

CLOSING PRAYER: Forgive me, gracious Father, when I come to your Word distracted, when my prayers come from habit more than from my heart. Today, your Word has my undivided attention, and I pray that you will use it to change me to be more and more godly.

(Edited from Encounter with God)