The term "Godly" is often used in Scripture to describe individuals who exhibit a life characterized by devotion, piety, and a deep reverence for God. This title is not merely an external label but reflects an inner transformation and alignment with God's will and purposes. The godly are those who seek to live in accordance with God's commandments and who demonstrate the fruits of the Spirit in their daily lives.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word often translated as "godly" is "chasid," which conveys the idea of kindness, piety, and loyalty to God. The Psalms frequently refer to the godly as those who are faithful to the covenant and who trust in the Lord. For example, Psalm 4:3 states, "Know that the LORD has set apart the godly for Himself; the LORD hears when I call to Him." This verse highlights the special relationship between God and the godly, emphasizing divine favor and attentiveness to their prayers.

The godly are also depicted as those who walk in righteousness and integrity. Proverbs 2:8 declares, "He guards the paths of justice and protects the way of His saints." Here, the godly are assured of God's protection and guidance as they pursue a life of justice and righteousness.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the concept of godliness is closely associated with the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. The Greek word "eusebeia" is often used to describe godliness, which encompasses reverence, respect, and devotion to God. The Apostle Paul frequently exhorts believers to pursue godliness as a key aspect of their Christian walk. In 1 Timothy 4:8 , Paul writes, "For physical exercise is of limited value, but godliness is valuable in every way, holding promise for the present life and for the one to come."

The godly are those who reflect the character of Christ in their actions and attitudes. They are called to live lives that are set apart, demonstrating love, humility, and obedience to God's Word. Titus 2:11-12 instructs, "For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men. It instructs us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live sensible, upright, and godly lives in the present age."

Characteristics of the Godly

The godly are marked by several key characteristics:

1. Devotion to Prayer and Worship: The godly prioritize their relationship with God through regular prayer and worship, seeking His presence and guidance in all aspects of life.

2. Commitment to Holiness: They strive to live holy lives, avoiding sin and pursuing righteousness. This commitment is rooted in a desire to honor God and reflect His holiness.

3. Love for Others: The godly demonstrate love and compassion towards others, following the example of Christ's sacrificial love.

4. Steadfastness in Trials: They exhibit perseverance and faithfulness in the face of trials and challenges, trusting in God's sovereignty and goodness.

5. Obedience to God's Word: The godly are diligent in studying and applying Scripture, allowing it to shape their beliefs and actions.

Conclusion

The title "Godly" is a profound designation for those who are dedicated to living in accordance with God's will. It signifies a life transformed by grace, marked by devotion, righteousness, and a deep love for God and others. The godly serve as a testament to the power of God's work in the hearts of His people, reflecting His glory in a world in need of His light.Psalm 4:3
But know that the LORD has set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call to him.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Peter 2:9
The Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust to the day of judgment to be punished:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

"He is the Rock, his Work is Perfect. For all his Ways are ...
... It was enough of old with the saints, "It is the Lord, let him do ... word Jehovah holds
forth more to angels than all the inculcated names and titles of God ...
/.../binning/the works of the rev hugh binning/sermon iii he is the.htm

Of the True Church. Duty of Cultivating Unity with Her, as the ...
... piety are said to inscribe their names among the ... Those magnificent titles, as when
the temple is called ... of cutting himself off from the communion of saints. ...
/.../calvin/the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 1 of the true.htm

The Revelation and Career of the Anti-Christ.
... contrast between Christ and the Anti-christ in their several names and titles but
the same ... that he will "make war with the saints." These "saints" are the ...
/.../pink/the redeemers return/4 the revelation and career.htm

The Saints' Privilege and Profit;
... on Aaron's breast-plate was fixed the names of the ... odours, which are the prayers
of saints, and they ... Thus you see what terms, characters, titles, and privileges ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the saints privilege and profit.htm

Christ's Exaltation
... Thus he is exalted in his titles of honour ... glory in heaven, he is not unmindful of
his saints on earth ... Our high priest has all the names and wants of his people ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watson/a body of divinity/7 christs exaltation.htm

Hymns and Spiritual Songs
... 1. 9 10. Hymn 1:138. Saints in the hands of Christ, John 10. 28 29. ... Hymn 1:147. The
names and titles of Christ, from several scriptures. Hymn 1:148. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watts/hymns and spiritual songs/

The Fifth Theological Oration.
... from ourselves, for God resteth nowhere as He doth upon the Saints. ... I tremble when
I think of the abundance of the titles, and how many Names they outrage ...
/.../cyril/lectures of s cyril of jerusalem/the fifth theological oration.htm

Antichrist.
... they have invented so many places, offices, names, titles, orders, vows ... And as to
the saints, their guesses as to ... but that this mistake of the godly may become ...
//christianbookshelf.org/bunyan/the riches of bunyan/xxiii antichrist.htm

The Psalms and Hymns of Isaac Watts
... 1:9,10. HYMN 138 Saints in the hands of Christ Jn. 10:28,29. ... From several scriptures.
HYMN 148 The names and titles of Christ. From several scriptures. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watts/the psalms and hymns of isaac watts/

The Scope of the Apocalypse is Indicated by Its Place in the ...
... expound, even briefly, the significance of these three titles. ... The "saints" here
mentioned are the godly Jewish ... seen here: only they whose names were written ...
//christianbookshelf.org/pink/the antichrist/the scope of the apocalypse.htm

What is the name of God? | GotQuestions.org

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