What The Bible Says About Physical Fitness
Sadie Jean (left), 2018 Arizona Powerlifting State Champion 56kg
As Christian homemakers, we often prioritize nurturing our families, cultivating our homes, and deepening our spiritual lives. However, amidst these noble pursuits, we sometimes overlook a crucial aspect of our well-being: physical fitness.
Throughout the Bible we find invaluable insights into the significance of maintaining our bodies. The Bible offers a holistic view of humanity, acknowledging the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit. It teaches us that caring for our physical bodies is not separate from our spiritual walk but rather an integral part of it.
The Body as a Temple
To understand physical fitness through a biblical lens, it is essential to recognize this profound truth: our bodies, with the Holy Spirit, are vessels of God's presence and should be treated as such.
As temples of the Holy Spirit, we are called to steward our bodies well. Engaging in fitness activities demonstrates a commitment to caring for the physical vessel entrusted to us by God and promotes a stewardship mindset.
When we neglect our physical health, we not only disregard the temple that God has entrusted to us but also hinder our ability to serve Him effectively.
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Discipline and Self-Control
Fitness provides the perfect opportunity for Christian to develop discipline. By setting goals, establishing routines and consistency, and persevering through challenges with endurance, individuals cultivate the habits of self-control and discipline that are crucial for spiritual growth as well.
Galatians 5:22-23 highlights self-control as one of the fruits of the Spirit. This verse reminds us that we have access to the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit, which enables us to exercise discipline in various areas of our lives, including our physical health.
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.”
Honoring God with Our Bodies
By demonstrating self-control and discipline in their fitness pursuits, believers can inspire and encourage others to prioritize their physical health as part of their overall commitment to honoring God with their bodies.
Physical health is not merely a personal pursuit, but an act of worship. This act of worship, giving God our bodies to use for His purposes, is an expression of gratitude for God's mercy in giving us eternal life.
“...You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
As Christian homemakers, we are called to integrate these biblical principles and essential virtues into our daily lives. However, we must always seek a balance between physical and spiritual growth, recognizing that both are essential components of a life lived in devotion to God.
“For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.”
