The Telephone Game — Gossip vs. Instruction - Tuesday
Today’s Verse
1 Timothy 4:7-8
Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. (NLT)
In 2002, after a crushing playoff loss, reporters asked Allen Iverson about his practice habits. What happened next? A press conference for the ages.
“Practice…we’re talking about PRACTICE, man!!”
Iverson infamously said the word “practice” 22 times!
His rant may not have been a life lesson, but his words actually point to something Jesus taught—because practice really does matter. Just look at Matthew 7:24: “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice…”
There’s our keyword: practice.
But let’s see what Jesus meant by that.
He continues, “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” Jesus skillfully uses a parable of two different builders to illustrate his lesson in Matthew 7:24-27. Both heard His teachings, but only the wise man put them into practice by building his house on the rock. When storms came, his foundation stood firm. The foolish builder (the knowledge-without-action guy) built on sand, shaky and easily swept away.
We can attend church, read devotionals, and speak about righteousness, but if those truths don’t shape our actions, we’ve missed it.
Think about exercise. Talking about fitness doesn’t build strength. Reading health articles without working out changes nothing. Knowing details about gym equipment won’t build your biceps. Only consistent action produces results. The same goes for spiritual growth. Hearing sermons and discussing Scripture is valuable, but transformation happens when we live out what we learn.
As Paul puts it, “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things” (1 Timothy 4:8a).
So test yourself today. What truths has God shown you that you’ve left unpracticed? Maybe it’s forgiving someone, extending kindness, or stepping out in faith.
REFLECTION
Write down one specific action you’ll take this week to live out what you’ve learned. But don’t try to do it on your own. Make this your prayer: Father, help me move from hearing to doing. Let Your Word shape my choices, habits, and relationships. Amen.
