Introduction

‘And to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness.’ 2 Peter 1:6

According to Baker’s Evangelical Dictionary, godliness is the reverent awareness of God’s sovereignty over every aspect of life and the attendant determination to honour Him in all of one’s conduct. As Peter continues building up the Christian graces, his did not fail to recognise the place of godliness. In the above text, this quality has to be added to perseverance.

Paul on the other hand talks extensively about godliness in his letters to Timothy, particularly in the first one. In 1 Timothy 2:2 he attributes being able to live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness, to praying for all people including kings and those in authority.

Also in 1 Timothy 3:16, Paul explains the mystery of true godliness which basically covers the coming of Christ, His vindication by the Spirit, the gospel about him being preached, the faith we have in Him and his ascension to glory. He further expressed the significance of godliness in that it has value for all things as it covers both the present life and the one to come.

Furthermore, he emphasized the need for God’s people to imbibe contentment and shun covetousness as godliness taken together with contentment gives great gain.

Christians are to be careful of the love of money. It is important to highlight that saying NO to ungodliness, in Titus 2:12, implies saying YES to godliness.

‘If anyone teaches otherwise and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, they are conceited and understand nothing. They have an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions and constant friction between people of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain. But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.’ 1 Timothy 6:3-10

Prayer

Holy Father in heaven, we desire to be like You. Kindly help us to shun all unrighteousness and worldly lusts, but to be godly in all our dealings, truly reflecting the light of the gospel.