Spiritual Fitness

Scripture:  1 Timothy 4:6-11 New International Version (NIV) -  If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed. 7 Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. 8 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. 9 This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance. 10 That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and especially of those who believe. 11 Command and teach these things.

I need a workout regimen that’s righteous
One that produces spiritual wealth and fitness

Rather than counting and monitoring my calories
I should be counting and monitoring my spirituality

I consistently pray for the nourishment of my body
Yet, I often fail with providing nourishment for the Body

Nurturing a steady diet of faith through good doctrine
Rejecting what’s evil, to rely on The Spirit that’s profiting

Exercising patience by relying on the Lord’s promises
Working spiritual muscles for trials, ministry, and services

Surely, there will be labor, challenges, and suffering
However, The Lord trains me through the pain and recovery

Trusting the process as the Lord commands and teaches
My obedience reflects and reveals my level of believing

So, my fitness program is based and planned on His truth
I am required to develop habits that will spiritually renew

Although, I seek good mental, physical, and emotional health
There is none greater than spiritual fitness that brings an eternal wealth

Therefore, I put my hope in the Lord’s strength, not my own
My obedience, love, and faith are the exercises I have shown
Prayer:  Lord, I often size myself up and critique my physical appearance. I declare the urgency to get physically fit. Surely, there is nothing wrong with that thought. Yet, my spiritual presentation is rarely examined with the same importance. I’m reminded that faith is like a muscle that must be worked out. Forgive me, Lord! I know I am not in the best spiritual shape. In order to align me with You, it requires faith, patience, and obedient exercises. Love and forgiveness must be displayed frequently. I can not do this without my Holy Trainer, I need You to intervene when I am lazy, content, or independent. Train me, Lord! Continue to remind me of Your promises as I work my Salvation out. I am asking this in the name of Jesus, Amen!
(by Glenny Z. Moore)