7 But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness.
7 Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales; rather, train yourself to be godly.
7 Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness;
7 Stay clear of silly stories that get dressed up as religion. Exercise daily in God - no spiritual flabbiness, please!
7 But reject profane and old wives' fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness.
7 Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives' tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Timothy 4:7
Commentary on 1 Timothy 4:6-10
(Read 1 Timothy 4:6-10)
Outward acts of self-denial profit little. What will it avail us to mortify the body, if we do not mortify sin? No diligence in mere outward things could be of much use. The gain of godliness lies much in the promise; and the promises to godly people relate partly to the life that now is, but especially to the life which is to come: though we lose for Christ, we shall not lose by him. If Christ be thus the Saviour of all men, then much more will he be the Rewarder of those who seek and serve him; he will provide well for those whom he has made new creatures.