Is Self-Improvement Biblical?
January 2026
Is self-improvement biblical?
“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.”
1 Timothy 4:8
The new year often arrives with fresh goals and renewed motivation. We resolve to drink more water, eat better, move our bodies, and create healthier routines. And Scripture tells us clearly, there is nothing wrong with this. Paul acknowledges that physical training DOES have value. Caring for our bodies is a form of stewardship, and honoring the temple God has given us matters. But Paul doesn’t stop there, and neither should we.
He gently shifts our focus to something far greater: godliness. While physical discipline benefits us for a season, spiritual growth holds value for all things, for our present lives and for eternity. Biblical self-improvement isn’t about becoming more impressive, productive, or put-together. It’s about becoming more Christ-like.
Godliness shapes our hearts, not just our habits. It teaches us to love when it’s inconvenient, to forgive when it’s hard, to trust God when outcomes feel uncertain. It transforms how we speak, how we respond, how we serve, and how we see ourselves and others. This kind of growth doesn’t fade with time.
That’s why spiritual disciplines matter. Reading Scripture, praying consistently, studying God’s Word with others. These practices aren’t about checking boxes; they are how we position ourselves to be shaped by God. Just as physical training requires intention, godliness grows when we show up regularly and invite the Holy Spirit to do His sanctifying work in us.
As we begin a new year, let’s commit not only to caring for our bodies, but to nourishing our souls.
If you’re looking for a practical next step, consider joining an ‘Ohana group, starting a Bible reading plan or joining the Women’s Ministry’s Inklings reading plan, the once-a-month book club available through the NSCF app. Walking alongside other women as we grow in faith helps keep us encouraged, accountable, and rooted in truth.
May this year not be marked by how much we improve outwardly, but by how deeply we allow God to transform us inwardly. Because the most meaningful growth isn’t about becoming better versions of ourselves, it’s about becoming more like Jesus.
Happy New Year,
Danielle Porter
Is self-improvement biblical?
“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.”
1 Timothy 4:8
The new year often arrives with fresh goals and renewed motivation. We resolve to drink more water, eat better, move our bodies, and create healthier routines. And Scripture tells us clearly, there is nothing wrong with this. Paul acknowledges that physical training DOES have value. Caring for our bodies is a form of stewardship, and honoring the temple God has given us matters. But Paul doesn’t stop there, and neither should we.
He gently shifts our focus to something far greater: godliness. While physical discipline benefits us for a season, spiritual growth holds value for all things, for our present lives and for eternity. Biblical self-improvement isn’t about becoming more impressive, productive, or put-together. It’s about becoming more Christ-like.
Godliness shapes our hearts, not just our habits. It teaches us to love when it’s inconvenient, to forgive when it’s hard, to trust God when outcomes feel uncertain. It transforms how we speak, how we respond, how we serve, and how we see ourselves and others. This kind of growth doesn’t fade with time.
That’s why spiritual disciplines matter. Reading Scripture, praying consistently, studying God’s Word with others. These practices aren’t about checking boxes; they are how we position ourselves to be shaped by God. Just as physical training requires intention, godliness grows when we show up regularly and invite the Holy Spirit to do His sanctifying work in us.
As we begin a new year, let’s commit not only to caring for our bodies, but to nourishing our souls.
If you’re looking for a practical next step, consider joining an ‘Ohana group, starting a Bible reading plan or joining the Women’s Ministry’s Inklings reading plan, the once-a-month book club available through the NSCF app. Walking alongside other women as we grow in faith helps keep us encouraged, accountable, and rooted in truth.
May this year not be marked by how much we improve outwardly, but by how deeply we allow God to transform us inwardly. Because the most meaningful growth isn’t about becoming better versions of ourselves, it’s about becoming more like Jesus.
Happy New Year,
Danielle Porter
Posted in H2P 2026
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