Godliness

1-31-16

Apologies in advance for any errors or changes in length. Our internet is down so I'm typing this up on my phone so I can still post it today. We've been talking about perseverance, right? :)

So today's topic from 2 Peter 1:5-7 is godliness. The very word intimidates me. We are being told basically to be like God. But what exactly does that mean?

What it Is

Strong's defines godliness as piety and holiness. 1 Peter 1:14-16 says, "as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance; but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy.”" We need to avoid anything that is sinful. 

Our goal in this life is to become as ready as we can for Heaven. Anything that does not belong in Heaven is something that we have no business being around. 

What it Does

Godliness is part of what helps us to lead the type of life God wants us to. 1 Timothy 2:2 says, "for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence."

Our attitude should be godly and pure. When we are talking with friends, we certainly shouldn't make bad jokes, for example. Even more though, we should strive to keep our minds pure enough that the dirty language doesn't cross our minds at all. 

How we Get It

I Timothy 4:7-8 says, "But reject profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness. For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come." We are to work toward godliness. It isn't a trait that you either have or you don't; it can be achieved with practice. 

Philippians 4:8 teaches us, "Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things." What we think about is difficult to control, but it can be done. We need to focus on good things. Keeping our mind directed this way will help keep our attitudes pure.

So let's get out there and let our lights shine so bright that people don't have to ask us if we're Christians because they can tell we are.

May the Lord bless and keep you,

Heather