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It
[grace] has trained us to reject and renounce all ungodliness
(irreligion) and worldly (passionate) desires, to live discreet
(temperate, self-controlled), upright, devout (spiritually whole) lives
in this present world.
– Titus 2:12, The Amplified Bible
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When an athlete goes into
training, he practices to improve his skills. He works hard, repeating
the same motions over and over until they become what we’d call “second
nature” to him.
Most of us understand how crucial that kind of
training is in the physical realm. We know that you simply can’t be a
winner without it. But did you know we can train ourselves that same way
where spiritual things are concerned?
That’s right! Hebrews 5:14 says we can train our
senses to discern between good and evil. When you train, or practice,
for something, you expose yourself daily to whatever it is you want to
become. You practice it over and over until it becomes second nature to
you. People who are lazy have practiced being lazy. People who are
disciplined have practiced being disciplined.
Spending time with
God is “spirit” practice. As you do it diligently, your spirit will grow
stronger and will start to overcome the habits of the flesh.
If,
for example, you have trouble getting up in the morning to spend time
with God before the busyness of the day begins, if you’ve been giving in
to your flesh and staying in bed, then you’ll have to start practicing
getting up. The more you practice it, the easier it will be.
Don’t
expect yourself to do it perfectly right from the beginning. Don’t get
discouraged when you stumble and fail. You’re just out of practice. Get
back on your feet and go at it again!
Become a spiritual athlete.
Put yourself in training by practicing the things of God. Build your
spirit muscles through fellowship with Him. You will be surprised to
find just how much of a winner you can be.
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