1 Timothy 4:7–8 But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness. 8 For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.
In today’s fitness-focused world, it’s important to remember that while caring for our bodies is good, spiritual exercise holds greater value. As believers, our bodies are temples of God, and we should maintain them. However, Paul reminds us in 1 Timothy 4:7-8 that “bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things.”
Paul often used sports to illustrate spiritual truths, emphasizing that spiritual growth and godliness have eternal value. Our physical bodies will eventually die, but what we do for Christ will last forever. Therefore, we should prioritize spiritual exercise, investing our time and energy in things that have eternal significance.
In Philippians 3:20-21, Paul assures us that our future is in heaven, where our bodies will be transformed to be like Christ’s glorious body. So, while we take care of our current bodies to serve the Lord, our focus should remain on spiritual growth and godliness.
Devotional by Pastor Rod Holler, Sr.