Exercise yourself toward godliness. - 1 Timothy 4:7
"Good
morning! Only 1 more day until Friday!" Our local traffic reporter counts down to the
weekend for his morning radio audience. Many in his audience are likely thinking all week
about hitting the bike trail, heading for the beach, or teeing off in the morning mist.
Paul told Timothy that physical exercise does profit us "a little" (1 Timothy
4:8). Regular exercise and recreation can help to restore our perspective, to tone up our
muscles, and to recharge our batteries. But Paul said that "godliness is profitable
for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come"
(v.8).
The trouble is that many Christians today emphasize physical exercise almost to the
exclusion of spiritual exercise. Paul also said, "Exercise yourself toward
godliness" (v.7). Regular spiritual exercise such as prayer, Bible study, walking in
the Spirit, sharing Christ with others, serving others, and living a pure and holy life
are "profitable" for both time and eternity.
Looking forward to the weekend is fine. And there's nothing wrong with biking, swimming,
golfing, or other forms of recreation. But remember, the greatest profit comes from
exercising "toward godliness."
-DCE
A healthy body, healthy mind,
Should be the Christian's goal;
But it is more important still
To exercise the soul.
-Bosch
To keep spiritually fit, feed on God's Word and exercise your faith