By Pastor Robert Jewett

As we begin a new year, many of us will set out to make changes in our lives.  After enjoying much feasting from Thanksgiving through New Year’s, it is typical to resolve to change our eating habits and setup some serious exercise routines.  Fitness gyms love this time of year because memberships spike.  The mindset is, “I am going to get healthy this year!”  While I certainly share these sentiments, I also understand that my spiritual health is even more important than my physical health.

Changing eating habits and committing to exercising regularly takes self-discipline and a time commitment. To plan out meals, shop for specific foods, and then prepare healthy meals takes dedication.  Adding a new exercise routine takes even more energy and time.  While many will make a resolution to start these habits, not all will successfully accomplish them.  If you happened to make this resolution, I encourage you to press on and not give up.

Beyond your physical bodies, however, I want to encourage you to “train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” (1 Tim. 4:7-8).  Training for godliness begins by repenting from sin and placing all your trust in Jesus Christ.  Much like eating a healthy diet and exercising, your spiritual diet includes regularly reading the Bible and then doing what it says.  Your ongoing spiritual training occurs daily as you express your love for God by obeying him and by loving others.  The beauty of your spiritual training is that since it is ultimately for the glory of God, it is God who empowers your resolution to get spiritually fit: “for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure” (Phil. 2:13).

Let the training begin!

Word of Truth Community Church meets Sundays at 10:30 a.m. at 850 E. Parkridge Ave., #110, in Corona.  For more information, visit wordoftruthcc.com.