Many will hear the Word of God. Then, they will follow one of two paths. They will persist in their faith or they will depart from it.
Paul warns: “Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons,”(1) As we've talked about over the last few weeks, it is very important to know God's character, study His Word for yourself to know truth and have a personal relationship with Him so that you will not be one of those deceived to follow wrong teaching and beliefs.
Paul encourages us to be " a good servant of Christ Jesus"(6) He uses the word training, specifically “being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed.”(6) Training is something that takes time, commitment, focus, and dedication knowing that the end result is worth all the sacrifice and effort. Paul warns us: “Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness;” (7) There may be many things we choose to devote our time and efforts towards. These may be worthy goals such as physical fitness but God doesn't want us to make other pursuits too important and not devote enough time to our spiritual training. The reason he gives: “godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.” (8)
Paul also encourages us to be examples to other believers “in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” (12) He encourages us as a church: “Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching.” (13)
Where do you see yourself in your spiritual training? Are you sitting on the sidelines watching and trying to motivate yourself to begin? Are you a beginner, taking slow, cautious steps and perhaps not sure how to proceed? Are you somewhat experienced but inconsistent and struggling to stay the course? Are you a more seasoned believer, so persistent and faithful in your spiritual walk that it's as much a part of your daily life as breathing? Wherever you are, don't train alone! Partner with other believers, seek godly mentors and most importantly, seek the help of God.
Paul knew how to persist. He wants us to persist too.
“...But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 3:13-14