For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. 1 Timothy 4:8
“When I go to the house of God I do not want amusement; I want the doctrine which is according to godliness. I want to hear the remedy against the harassing of my guilt and the disorder of my affections. I want to be led from weariness and disappointment to that goodness which filleth the hungry soul. I want to have light upon the mystery of providence; to be taught how the judgments of the Lord are right; how I shall be prepared for duty and for trial; how I may fear God all the days of my life, and close them in peace.”
John M. Mason in Dictionary of Burning Words of Brilliant Writers, compiled by Josiah Hotchkiss Gilbert (New York: Wilbur B. Ketcham, 1895) 151.
This post touched me deeply and paints a well-rounded picture of the work I aim to do all over the world. In training overseers of the work in God’s house and in ministries in accordance with godliness, I (and those who serve with me) shape peoples’ lives and their eternity, and they have that impact on others. So, wherever you gather to worship, this is my prayer for you from Dubai on the even of the first-ever GTP Global Gathering. Herein, hear my commitment to helping you nurture such faithfulness through these daily posts.
May your church for ministry setting be a place that trains people in godliness, that helps everyone have rightly ordered affections, that leads everyone to trust in the goodness of God. May that light of the mystery of God’s providence and the richness of His judgments be lifted up in order to build everyone up for Christian duty and to endure suffering. May you fear God and show that reverence through an obedient and generous life and a peaceful departure to your eternal home. And may you hear “well done” upon arrival from Jesus. Amen.