Faith Watchers

Train yourself in godliness, for while physical training is of some value, godliness is valuable in every way, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. -1 Timothy 4:7-8

I remember several years ago when Kevin was really into physical training.  He lifted weights, ran, rode his bike, and worked for neighbors around the neighborhood doing physical outside labor for extra cash and the physical benefits it brought him.  He was so proud to show off his strength and new look!  And I enjoy watching him.  I was very proud to see him succeed in what he set out to do.  It takes a lot of self discipline and a strong desire to make those kinds of changes.  You can’t just sit around and hope to have a better body… you have to work at it.

Likewise, you can’t just sit around and wait for the fruits of the Spirit to bloom within you.  You have to work at it.  You have to exercise each fruit as you would each muscle.  Happily, our equipment doesn’t include weight benches, treadmills and stationary bikes… but a bible, other spiritual reading matter, weekly worship, prayer, giving and serving. Unfortunately, we have just as much of a tendency to let this equipment get dusty as we do the treadmill.

When we work on our bodies, we know how much it helps to be a part of a club or organization where we receive encouragement when we slide and pats on the back for a job well done.  We need to be more intentional about doing the same for each other in our spiritual lives.  That is what a faith community is all about… encouraging one another in our spiritual growth. 

Maybe we should form a “Faith Watcher” group and develop a point system to follow each week.  But, unlike Weightwatchers, in this case, points would be good!  5 points for every chapter of the Bible read… 5 points for every 15 minutes spent in prayer, 50 points for bringing an unchurched friend to church with you… etc.  The benefit?  Promise for this life and the life to come.  Even Weightwatchers can only make promises for this life.


Lord God,
Thank you for faith community that encourages and supports one another in our daily spiritual walk.  Help us to be faithful as we give that encouragement and support to others.  Amen.


Joys:  Watching Cecelia enjoy her "giant" cupcake; yummy "no noodles" lasagne; looking forward to my morning hike in this perfect weather