The Practice of Godliness

In The Practice of Godliness by Jerry Bridges, he gives some very helpful exhortations in the pursuit of godliness. First of all, godliness begins with a sincere devotion to God. It begins with a fear of God, understanding his infinite majesty and being. God is holy. God hates sin. God will judge sin. God cannot stand evil. But not only should we fear God, but we should understand the love of God. God's love is so deep because He sent his Son to atone for all our sins. We do not earn merit through our good deeds, but only through the shed blood of his Son by which we are forgiven. Both a fear and love of God will lead to a desire for God. Understanding who God is and what He has done for us will lead us to worship and desire to please Him. Jerry Bridges argues that the practice of godliness will ultimately flow from devotion to God. How do we practice godliness?

(1) Godliness demands commitment

We cannot mystically wait to be godly and "let go and let God." Sanctification does not happen like that. We must be active in our sanctification (Phil 2:13), while God works within us to accomplish His good will.

(2) Godliness demands the Right Teacher

We must be trained by the Holy Spirit. And the greatest means the Holy Spirit uses is the Word of God. We must commit ourselves to reading the Word of God daily. The Word will inform us, convict us, rebuke us, encourage us, strengthen us. In other words, the Word will keep us in relationship to God as we meditate and pray.

Second of all, we must memorize scriptures on the holiness of God, the love of God, the mercy of God, forgiveness, etc.

(3) Godliness demands practice

We must practice godliness in all our lives. We must be prayerful in how God should lead us.

Lord, increase my devotion to you. I've been busy, but not being busy devoted to you. Lead my heart to you again. Forgive me for my transgressions and sins against you. Turn my heart to you again and help me be active in my fight against sin. In Jesus Name, Amen.