Getting in Shape Spiritually

With a new year, many of us are evaluating our health and ways we can improve it. The gyms will be full in January. People will start new diets once the final holiday treats are all polished off. Studies have shown that three of the key factors in physical health are diet, exercise, and rest. Striving for wellness in our bodies is indeed a good goal. 1 Timothy 4:8 reminds us, however, that “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.” Just like a proper diet, exercise, and adequate rest can positively affect our physical health, they can also improve our spiritual well being.

Diet is what we consume. As we strive to become mature believers and more like Christ, we must regularly take in God’s word – the Bible. In order to live according to God’s word, we have to know what it says. It sounds pretty simple, but it takes time and commitment to read and understand the Bible. God’s word will guide us if we make a consistent effort to study it. “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Exercise always involves action. In our spiritual lives, we must put into practice what the Lord teaches us. By exercising the fruits of the spirit, we can show Christ to the world around us. “But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control.” Galatians 5:22-23

Finally, just like we need rest to maintain a healthy body, we also need to rest in the presence and promises of the Lord. What a comfort to be able to rest in Jesus in this ever-changing world! Jesus said in Matthew, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

I pray this new year is a healthy one for you and your family – not only physically, but also spiritually.

Lord, reveal to us how we can grow closer to you and more spiritually fit in 2021. In Jesus name, Amen.