Good morning,
"Every Scripture is God-breathed (given by His inspiration) and profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of sin, for correction of error and discipline in obedience, [and] for training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God's will in thought, purpose, and action), So that the man of God may be complete and proficient, well fitted and thoroughly equipped for every good work." Instructions are given to create order; steps given to obey the orders; training which relates to the cultivating of the mind and morals. Instructions are employed for the purpose of the 'now' commands and 'now' reproof; it is information given to help one choose right and do right. Reproof and conviction of sin is why instruction is needed in order to examine where you are in light of the instructions; to expose to the opening of the eyes; to reprimand and to bring conviction. Discipline in obedience helps to curb passions; restoration to an upright or right state; improvement of life and character; instructions in order to reform ones life and character. All of the Word of God is given to help us create order in our lives, if we yield to it. We are laboring together with God to build a God-likeness. In an effort to submit to His Lordship in our daily lives, we must be in a continual training unto more God- likeness. Opportunities present themselves daily where we must choose the instructions that are God-breathed in the Word or the ways of death. "He who heeds instruction and correction is [not only himself] in the way of life [but also] is a way of life for others. And he who neglects or refuses reproof [not only himself] goes astray [but also] causes to err and is a path toward ruin for others." (Prov. 10:17) We see over and over again the importance that the effect of our lives being lived 'holy' before everyone has on others. We are after all a living book, so we have to 'live out loud'! This is done by training ourselves with the instructions of the Word. "But refuse and avoid irreverent legends (profane and impure and godless fictions, mere grandmothers' tales) and silly myths, and express your disapproval of them. Train yourself toward godliness (piety), [keeping yourself spiritually fit]. For physical training is of some value (useful for a little), but godliness (spiritual training) is useful and of value in everything and in every way, for it holds promise for the present life and also for the life which is to come." (1 Timothy 4:7-8) The Message Bible says it this way; "Stay clear of silly stories that get dressed up as religion. Exercise daily in God—no spiritual flabbiness, please! Workouts in the gymnasium are useful, but a disciplined life in God is far more so, making you fit both today and forever." (1 Tim. 4:7-8) Exercise/ train means to practice radical discipline. Greek word 'gumnazo' where we get the word gymnasium. It represents people who want to change and develop so much that they are willing to put themselves through rigorous and demanding training in order to achieve desired results. This produces habitual fellowship, where we set ourselves aside to be a vessel of honor. "And all of us, as with unveiled face, [because we] continued to behold [in the Word of God] as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendor and from one degree of glory to another; [for this comes] from the Lord [Who is] the Spirit." ( 2 Corin. 3:18) As we stay in the training field of God's Word and yield to instructions in our daily lives we are being made more and more into His glorious image. He perfects us as we exercise daily and the more we train the more radical we become!
Love,
Pastor D.
Daughters of Z 