“The Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared…
“If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and the good doctrine you have followed. Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come… To this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior…
“Command and teach these things. Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. Devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching. Do not neglect the gift you have… Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress. Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.” 1 Timothy 4:1-2,6-7,9-16
Paul is instructing his spiritual son Timothy how to lead the church at Ephesus, a body rife with erudite but false teachers. Staying true to the Scriptures would not just happen, considering the proliferation of wayward teaching and weaknesses of the flesh. He must continue to be trained and to steadily train in the Word and faith. Godliness was not inherited but must be honed through consistent teaching, devoted practice, and persistent watchfulness.
Recognizing the need for constant training begins with unsullied discernment of deceitful spirits in present culture and an honest assessment of where we stand. Unless we believe there’s danger we won’t be committed to guarding against it. Unless we understand the forces against us and their power to undermine and destroy, we won’t assume a need for strength, readiness, or vigilance.
How aware are we of the deceit, lies, and seared consciences that surround us and influence most messages we hear? Have we grown uncareful, complacent, even apathetic about the worship of false gods in our society? Do we readily take people at their word without considering their sources? How thoughtfully do we compare what is proclaimed and condoned with God’s word? What study and targeted prayer will we implement to help us discern? If we desire to stand with the truth and be faithful to the Lord, His Spirit will direct us.
With whom can we train for godliness, committing to consistent practice of the gifts and knowledge we have? What sister or brother can we come alongside so we spur one another on to love and good deeds, and stand watch together? Whom will we ask to check our attitudes and assertions? How might we humble ourselves together before the Lord, seek His conviction where we’ve conformed to this world, and allow Him to renew our minds? (Romans 12:1-2; Hebrews 10:22-25)
Lord God, keep me alert and persistent in training for godliness and encouraging others in the same, for Your glory. 
As the rain and snow 