Discipline in the Christian life isn't optional - it's crucial.
Paul's words, inspired by the Spirit of God, to his protege' ring amazingly true in the me-orientied society in which we live. Bodily discipline is profitable, but for this life only. Godliness is profitable for this life and the life to come. Mr. P90X and Mr. ShakeWeight don't tell you that. 24 Hour Fitness doesn't have that as their slogan. Heck, even the YMC(Christian!)A doesn't frame it up that way.
So what if you spent as much time on your spiritual health as you did on your physical health?
Focusing on spiritual health and discipline doesn't rule out physical exertion and discipline. In fact, if we were more spiritually disciplined we'd probably eat better too (ouch!). But Paul reminds us that focusing on this life and body is an effort in vain. Death comes calling to everyone. Godliness helps us in this life and readies us for the life to come.
One quick application for those tracking along with our NT75 Challenge: we're at the point where you might be so behind or have missed so many that you don't feel like it's worth it to hang in there. But stay with it. Discipline yourself to make time to read. Discipline yourself to find a verse or thought that you chew on throughout the day. Discipline yourself to mull it over and talk with your spouse, kids or friends about it. You can do it! And it's worth it.
Godliness profits us in this life and the life to come.
But that's just me thinking thoughts... (and being convicted)
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