Read 1 John 3:7–10
Today’s Scripture: Do not let anyone lead you astray. He who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. He who does what is sinful is of the devil. 1 John 3:7–8

God’s promise “I will cure you of backsliding” (Jer. 3:22) implies that
backsliding resembles physical sickness. First is the secret invasion of the body by a disease germ. An infection follows, and there is a gradual
decline: no pep, no appetite, no interest in normal activities. Then comes the collapse.

Spiritual decline works in a similar way. First, sin invades us. Instead of
fighting it, we yield to it (James 1:14–15), and then infection sets in. A
gradual decline follows. We lose our appetite for spiritual things, we
become listless and irritable, and finally we collapse. The only remedy is to confess and forsake our sin and turn to Christ for cleansing and healing.

Our “inner man” (Eph. 3:16 KJV) not only needs food and cleansing but also needs exercise: “Train yourself to be godly” (1 Tim. 4:7). People who eat but do not exercise will become overweight; people who exercise without eating will kill themselves. There must be proper balance. “Spiritual exercise” for us believers includes sharing Christ with others, doing good works in Christ’s name, and helping to build up other believers.

Something to Ponder
What opportunities for spiritual exercise did you encounter during this past week?