Waiting for the weekend

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.”  — David Egner

A healthy body, healthy mind,

Should be the Christian’s goal;

But it is more important still

To exercise the soul. — Bosch

READ: 1 Timothy 4:6-11

To keep spiritually fit, feed on God’s Word and exercise your faith.

The Bible in one year:

• Isaiah 19-21