1 Timothy 6:11-12 – But you, Timothy, man of God: Run for your life from all this. Pursue a righteous life — a life of wonder, faith, love, steadiness, courtesy. Run hard and fast in the faith. Seize the eternal life, the life you were called to, the life you so fervently embraced in the presence of so many witnesses. (MSG)

Exercise! Often when we hear that word, we cringe, knowing it is hard work.

In the physical realm, I have determined to get into shape and lose weight a few times over the years. Getting started is the hardest part. Then sticking with it can be a challenge as well. I have done this in order to improve my health and appearance.

How about spiritual exercise? Does our spirit need to be exercised? I would like to suggest that it does. That can also be a hard choice — one we procrastinate on. How do we exercise spiritually? By reading God's Word, by praying, by attending church regularly, by believing God's truths, by nurturing Christian friendships, by memorizing His Word, and by confessing our sin and our need for Jesus to be Lord of our lives. Then we will become more like Christ. Others will see Jesus in us. When we grow a little, we are content with the increased joy and peace and contentment, just like when we exercise physically, we are encouraged by the few pounds or inches we lose. Sticking with the spiritual exercise is hard as well. Both physical and spiritual exercise are important.

1 Corinthians 3:16 – Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? (NASB)

May we ever be conscious of keeping our bodies and spirits healthy.

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for the bodies that You have given us. Help us to take care of them. You live in us — and how grateful we are for that. Help us to take a deep, hard look at the reasons we eat too much. We ask for Your grace. We are a needy people. Amen.

Forward this devotional     Share on Facebook

About the author:

Judy Miller <gjmiller@telusplanet.net>
Grande Prairie, Alberta, Canada
Send your feedback to the author