“…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.”
If one is not used to time alone with God, then an extended time of solitude meant for prayer and meditation on the Word may at first seem a boring waste of time rather than a refreshing time of renewal.
If one is accustomed to only superficial prayer, then even setting aside an hour to pray in a place relatively free from distractions may not be preparation enough to allow a full 20 minutes of prayer.
If the idea & practice of demonstrating God’s presence to someone in crises is new, then doing so can initially be overwhelming, and the temptation may be strong to “fix it” yourself rather than leading the other person to trust in the Lord.
We all understand the need for physical conditioning, even if we don’t practice it. Forget marathons. If you want to do a 5K run, even someone in “pretty good shape” will need a few months of training.
We tend to be less aware of the need to learn not to be ruled by our emotions. “Be angry, but do not sin.” (Ephesians 4:26) We can’t control how we feel, but we can choose our attitudes and control our behavior. This, however takes practice. Two-year-olds are overwhelmed by strong feelings and throw tantrums or have “melt-downs.” Parents have to recognize the warning signs and take steps to prevent trouble, and they need to help the little one begin to gain some control over himself. (And some adults still need to learn to think before they speak and act rather than doing whatever they feel like!)
There is a similar need for training in spiritual matters. Engaging in regular acts of worship forms both the habit and the attitude of worship, making it easier for one to accept and submit to God’s will in difficult times. The regular practice of prayer—both alone and with others—prepares one for the times when there is nothing to do but cry out to God and wait; it also enables one to lead others in prayer when they are unable to pray for themselves. To be aware of God’s presence in ordinary situations—and to make others aware also—helps one to know how to demonstrate God’s presence in the midst of crisis.
When one has a healthy spiritual diet (Hebrews 5:12-14) and regularly practices spiritual disciplines—including taking regular Sabbath rests—then one is more ready to face the spiritual challenges of life. Spiritual training enables one to walk through the valleys with cheerful endurance (Psalm 23:4), gives one the strength to spend years joyfully uses one’s spiritual gifts for the benefit of the church (I Peter 4:7-11), and readies one to receive a crown of righteousness (I Timothy 4:7-8).
Learn and Live the Word 