Play the long game – go to the gym

I’ve just taken a break from the gym. My membership is on hold as I venture outdoors for my runs. That’s the theory and we shall see what happens.

We are going to read a word in these next verses which is gymnazo – ‘train’ – the root of our word ‘gymnasium’. Paul doesn’t want Timothy to take a break he is instructing him to be rigorous and disciplined in his life. The reason being is that the spiritual training that Paul is calling for is not for some temporary benefit but rather it is an investment that will outlast all earthly achievement. We must build the character that will be consistent throughout the decades of our life. Let’s read what Paul says.

“Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. ⁸ 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. ⁹ This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance.” (1 Timothy 4 v 7-9)

So what are the tips from this coach?

• Clear the rubbish away. “Have nothing to do with …” There are many myths in church that I still hear: success justifies any means; image above integrity; gifts more than character; power the ultimate desire. These are toxic to the soul and need to be rejected before we go to the gym. Put down the TED talks, the Youtube, the social media talks and pick up the Bible. Where are you seeking wisdom from?
• Godliness above all things. The character we build today shapes our future tomorrow, how we will be remembered and how we will stand before God.

Here’s my training plan at the gym:-

• How are my daily spiritual disciplines? Am I praying more? Am I spending time in the Bible more?
• Steer clear of success-at-any-cost mentality; arrogance; the belief that results justify the methods.
• Check-in with my accountability partners.
• What do I want to become in the next 5 years?
• Don’t give up.