"God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast and when I run, I feel his pleasure."

Eric Liddell in Chariots of Fire

Godliness

Godliness is hard to define and explain in words. We may think of words like "Godlike," "Christlike," or "the fruit of the Spirit." Godliness certainly includes Christian character, but it is more than that. Paul tells Titus that a knowledge of the truth will lead to godliness (Titus 1:1)

Elsewhere Paul tells us that God’s grace "teaches us to say 'No' to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives" as we await the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ (Titus 2:11-13). We might add that godliness is built on a fear of God, a love for God and a desire for God

Contentment is rare in our “if only” society. If only I had more money, a nicer house, could run faster, jump further, make the Olympics, then I would be fulfilled. There is nothing wrong with wanting a nice house, to run in the Olympics, to get a good contract – just don’t think that achieving them is the source of happiness.

Contentment is knowing that God is with you, that God is in control and that he can meet your every need. In my experience some of the most contented people seemed to have very little in material terms.

A short verse – 7 words – but plenty to ponder and plenty to challenge us.

Thanks to Jerry Bridges for some of the ideas in this devotional.

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