Practice of the Christian Life
The believer’s godliness
Genuine godliness is the fair relationship of the regenerated believer to God [211]. Godliness is required from any man justified by faith [212].
Godliness expresses the life of Christ in ourselves [213], is administered [214] in love [215] and gratitude towards God [216] through constant and untiring practice of prayer [217] and obedient meditation of the Bible [218].
Prayer is an offering to God the Father [219] sanctified through faith [220], made in the name of the Son [221] and led by the Holy Spirit [222]. Prayer is the sign of our dependence on the Lord [223] and doesn’t express our requirements [224] which would tend to take over God’s power [225]. Prayer enables us to participate in the work of God and links us to His cause [226].
The Christian who prays bows down [227] and worships [228], he confesses his faith [229], without anger or disputing [230]. He confesses his sin [231]. Without babbling [232], he turns to God; with thank offerings, and addresses petitions, requests, pleas for mercy, any legitimate question [233]. The Christian prays for every living person [234] and not for the dead [235].
He who prays making a vow must not commit himself thoughtlessly: He must fulfil his vows; otherwise he commits a sin [236].
He who loves God obeys His commands [237]. He looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom and does what it says persistently [238]. If accepted humbly [239], the word of truth makes us disciples [240], sets us free [241] and sanctifies us [242].
Such godliness, having value for all things [243], is not a means to financial gain, but is a promise for the present life and for eternal life [244].