“Godliness” can be defined as loving devotion to God characterized by a life of conformity to His will in one’s thinking, speaking and living. It’s an affectionate longing, a dependence, knowledge, submission and desire to obey God. The expression is especially found in 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus in the New Testament, books I know we’ve been hearing a great deal about in our adult study of “godliness” on Sundays and Wednesdays this quarter. Note the following
(1) Prayer is to be offered for all, especially our rulers and leaders, “that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way” (1 Timothy 2:2).
2) 1 Timothy 3:16 refers to the transforming power of the gospel, and how great “the mystery of godliness” is of Christ’s saving work.
(3) 1 Timothy 4:7-8 speak of “exercising” or “disciplining” ourselves to godliness and describe it as much more “profitable” than bodily exercise.
(4) Those who truly seek “godliness” also seek God’s truth, instruction and doctrine. After all, it’s the “doctrine that accords with godliness” (1 Timothy 6:3; Titus 1:1).
(5) Godliness leads to contentment and great gain (1 Timothy 6:5-6) and should constantly be pursued (1 Timothy 6:11).
(6) Denying “ungodliness and worldly lusts,” we are to live “soberly, righteously and godly” in this present world as Christians (Titus 2:12).
(7) It’s possible to have a “form of godliness,” but to deny its power (2 Timothy 3:5). It’s possible to sort of look like, but not really be, connected to God and pleasing unto Him.
(8) All who live godly lives can expect persecution and suffering at times (2 Timothy 3:12). However, such difficulties don’t begin to compare to the blessings and privileges of being in Christ and the glory that awaits in heaven! (Romans 8:18, 28-39).
-Mike Vestal
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