1 Timothy 4:7-8

Memory Verse

But you reject worthless even old wives tales and train yourself towards godliness. For the bodily exercise is a little profitable, but the godliness is profitable towards all, having promise concerning life, now and in the one to come—1 Timothy 4:7-8

“Worthless” refers to that which is outside the threshold—not permitting within a sacred place. This involves practices that attempt to creep into Christianity that have nothing to do with truth or God. Those who engage in “worthless old wives tales” are like Esau, who sold his birthright for a single meal (Hebrews 12:16). The prosperity gospel is another example of a worthless practice, rooted in fables, that imagines gain to be godliness (1Timothy 6:5).

Godliness signifies a state of being or an attitude characterized by deep respect and reverence toward God, as well as toward religious practices and duties. As Scripture affirms, “Godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Timothy 6:6). To cultivate godliness, we must train our senses to discern right from wrong, take the time to understand the desirous will of God, and practice living out the life we now possess in Christ.