Day 10: The Habit of Holiness
Scripture: 1 Timothy 4:7–8 (WEB)
“Exercise yourself toward godliness. For bodily exercise has some value, but godliness has value in all things, having the promise of the life which is now, and of that which is to come.”
We often think of holiness as something reserved for especially spiritual people. We may believe that holiness is found far away from the messiness of everyday life. What Paul told his protégé Timothy is amazingly practical: holiness is what we develop through consistent practice and training.
Holiness is not the attainment of perfection—it’s doing the things that bring us closer to God over and over.
Holiness grows when we pull weeds and say, “Thank you, God, for my yard and my house.
Holiness develops when we choose to be silent and wait for God to speak through us.
Holiness abounds when we forgive those who wound us rather than holding on to the hurt.
Paul views holiness as a practical action moving us toward godliness. Godly actions may require effort now, but with practice, holiness becomes natural, flowing through you with less and less effort.
The Greek word for “exercise" refers to discipline and consistent effort. Just as we grow stronger and more skilled with regular exercise, the soul grows through small and consistent choices that move us toward God.
As Paul said, routine practice of the holy life has a payoff today and even greater dividends in the future. Ask God to direct your actions now and keep you moving toward Him as your life unfolds.
Practice: Start a Holy Habit
Choose one small daily habit to begin forming the “muscles of godliness.” Here are a few ideas:
Start or end your day with a 3-minute thanksgiving list
Memorize one short verse this week and repeat it throughout the day
Pause before a meal to say, “This is holy”
Remember: It’s not about how much you do. It’s about how often you return.
Journaling Prompt
“What is one holy habit I can begin practicing today? How can I make it feel natural and joyful?”
Think simple. Think repeatable. Let it be a doorway, not a burden.
Closing Blessing
Know that every small decision for God moves you toward holiness.
Then, the seemingly ordinary in life becomes sacred as you grow in grace.
Continually practice the art of holiness so that you draw closer
not to perfection –
but to peace and purpose and God’s presence in you.
“As You Go” Prayer
Inhale: “Train me in Your ways…”
Exhale: “…and shape my soul in love.”