April 26, 2025

SPIRITUAL GROWTH REQUIRES INTENTIONAL EFFORT

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives’ tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly. Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come. This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it. This is why we work hard and continue to struggle, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people and particularly of all believers.” 

1 Timothy 4:7–10 NLT

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TODAY’S THOUGHT

Have you ever seen the movie The Karate Kid? It tells the story of Daniel, a teenager who’s dealing with relentless bullies. In his desperation, he turns to Mr. Miyagi, the seemingly ordinary janitor of his apartment complex—who just so happens to be a karate master.

Mr. Miyagi agrees to train Daniel, but instead of learning punches and kicks, Daniel is told to wax cars, sand floors, and paint fences—over and over again. Daniel becomes frustrated, feeling like he’s wasting his time. But then Mr. Miyagi suddenly attacks him, and to Daniel’s surprise, his body instinctively blocks every move. What he thought was pointless labor had built strength, discipline, and muscle memory. He was being trained all along, even when he couldn’t see it.

This is a powerful illustration of how spiritual practices shape our lives.

We all desire love, joy, peace, and patience—but those aren’t things we simply choose to have on a whim. We don’t drift into godliness. As Paul wrote, “Train yourself to be godly.” Like physical training, spiritual growth requires intentional effort, often through small, repetitive disciplines that may feel mundane. But over time, these practices shape our hearts, minds, and responses.

You might not see the impact immediately. Just like Daniel didn’t realize he was learning karate, we don’t always feel like we’re growing when we read the Bible, pray, or fast. But then the crisis hits… and something’s different. You respond with peace instead of panic. Joy holds steady, even in pain. Clarity comes, even in chaos.

Over the centuries, believers have passed down spiritual disciplines that help train us for godliness. Here are a few to consider:

1. Bible Reading – The Bible is the foundation of truth. Daily time in Scripture shapes your thoughts, your decisions, and your identity. Explore different methods and find one that nourishes your soul.

2. Worship – Whether alone or with others, take time to focus on who God is and what He’s done. Worship recenters your soul.

3. Prayer – Prayer is more than requests; it’s conversation. Include worship, confession, intercession, and personal needs. Don’t worry about getting it “right”—just be real.

4. Generosity – Giving your time, talent, and treasure is a powerful way to reflect God’s heart. We are never more like Jesus than when we give of ourselves.

5. Solitude – Step away from the noise. Use the quiet to reflect, journal, and listen for God’s voice. These moments create space for deeper connection.

6. Fasting – Fasting isn’t just giving something up—it’s about making room for more of God. It’s a reset that shifts your focus and sharpens your awareness of His presence.

Take a moment to reflect. Which one or two of these practices could you start incorporating into your life today? Like Daniel, you may not see the results immediately—but over time, you’ll notice a quiet transformation taking place.

And often, others will see the change in you before you even realize it.

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TODAY’S PRAYER

Holy Spirit, I want to train myself for godliness. I want to grow to be more like Jesus. Show me the next steps I can take and give me the grace to walk them out. Transform me through the little things, even when I can’t see the change yet.

“Scroll down to share what you feel God is saying based on today’s reading.”