Can We Use Exercise to Worship God?
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There are so many practical applications that we can take away from the Bible. Although God cares more about our spiritual state than anything else, (1 Timothy 4:8) He does call us to care for our bodies. Whether you are trying to get on track with your health or are just more active since it is summer, how can we approach fitness with a Christ-centered attitude? What does the Bible say about exercise?
The Proverbs 31 woman is said to take care of her body. It literally says that she makes her arms strong. This implies hard work and physical fitness to accomplish everyday tasks at her best.
Exercise involves discipline and sacrifice. In the moment it can be grueling or painful, however it yields results of strength and energy. We are called to care for our bodies that God has blessed us with in this life.
Although in context these verses are referring to sexual purity, the concept of our bodies being temples of God is significant to ponder. The truth is that we as believers are filled with the Holy Spirit. He lives within us. When we exercise, we are taking care of the temple of the Lord. We are up-keeping His home as an act of worship to Christ.
Maybe you have never thought about exercise as being a form of worship to God. However, the Lord can be glorified in all areas of our lives. One of these is fitness. When we take care of ourselves physically, we are more able to care for the needs of others. We have more energy to do the work of God. We have more strength to be of help. We even can make community with non-believers and share the gospel with them because we sacrificed time to go to a gym or be a part of a fitness class.
I love how the Lord can use things that seem mundane or even unappealing for our benefit and for His glory. Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” All things includes exercise. May our perspectives change to keep Jesus first and invite Him into fitness. May we never make can idol out of our bodies or fitness, and may we never neglect our health and taking care of our bodies. Exercise can play a beautiful role in the kingdom of God.
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Photo credit: Unsplash/Jonathan Borba
