12/08/25 AWARENESS IS NOT ENOUGH

12/08/25 AWARENESS IS NOT ENOUGH

(This is just an illustration. It is not really about physical exercise.)

I have exercise equipment in my "rec room." I know how to use it safely and effectively. I am aware of the benefits of a fitness program because I have seen the evidence in documentation, in other people's lives, and in my own experience.

But having equipment, facilities, and the know-how does not get me the desired results unless I apply myself to the discipline and effort of working out.

The Bible says,
1 Timothy 4:8
8 For bodily exercise profits little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.

(I believe this passage is primarily referring to religious exercises or activities (diets, fasting, festivals, singing, sacrificing), but the principle is also true concerning physical exercises or activities.)

(This is not shouting, it is emphasizing. )
BUT GODLINESS IS PROFITABLE UNTO ALL THINGS, HAVING THE PROMISE OF LIFE THAT NOW IS, AND THAT WHICH IS TO COME.

Godliness involves the whole person (the inner man [spirit] and the outer man [physical body]) in the practice of spiritual service, with the presence and power of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

(Referring to 6:16-18, Paul said) ...
2 Corinthians 7:1
1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

We need to employ spiritual exercises (reading Scripture, prayer, meditation, worship in spirit and in truth (privately and corporately), giving (time, talents, treasures), serving others, praising God, doing good works, witnessing, and testifying to other folks about the goodness and grace of God.

1 Timothy 4:15-16
15 Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.
16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.

The Bible tells us we will reap what we sow.
Galatians 6:6-10
6 Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.
7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.
8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.
9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.