Exercise for the Glory of God

1Timothy 4:7-8 says,

"Rather train yourself for godliness, for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come." 

&

1Corinthians 9:24-25

"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable."

I love this. I love that working out, self control with exercise, and discipline are all worldly examples of straining toward a higher goal. The higher goal of godliness or becoming like Jesus. 

So, how do we become like Jesus?

Through constant conversation with him (prayer), reading His word (the bible), and living in constant fellowship (life) with people who love him too while on mission to spread the good news of Jesus everywhere. We can't become like him without a self controlled life that leads us into a devoted discipline of getting to know him.

In that same way, we cannot be healthy without a self controlled life that leads us into a discipline of working our body toward a higher goal. This isn't about losing weight, being a skinnier you (or whatever all those internet sites tell you), or dieting. It is about viewing our discipline of working out as a smaller example of our discipline to becoming like Christ. 

We really can't do either of these things without reliance on the Holy Spirit. Of course we can work our bodies out in a frenzy for any of the things that I mentioned this is not about.  When it's not about Jesus our reasoning for exercising goes chaotically astray. But, if we do rely on Him - I believe that this can be for our good and His glory! We can be healthier, prolonging the bodies longevity, and have more energy to do what he has called us to. 

We are all here at a different place. 

You could be

-Already relying on the Holy Spirit for a disciplined life of exercise

-Like me in occasionally exercising but feeling that you need to be more disciplined and regular

-Exercising rarely and feeling lethargic and exhausted most of the day

-Not exercising at all and feeling like it is a far away and lofty goal that can't be attained

No matter where you are at, I know that God desires you to be healthy, energetic, and answering His call to have the gospel proclaimed through your life.

Today was about the theology behind exercising for the glory of God.
In the next few days I'll show you how I intend to practically live this out.

Have a wonderful Tuesday!
~Meg