The scriptures refer us to a parallel of bodily exercises and spiritual exercises. One example of this is found in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 where Paul instructs us to “Run to win”. There is a parallel between our need for physical fitness and our need for spiritual fitness. We must note that Paul tells us our spiritual shape is more important (1 Timothy 4:8).

     There is also an interesting but sad parallel to note. Most people have good intentions but their exercise equipment is only touched when its being dusted. The same can be said about most people’s Bibles—too many are not using their spiritual equipment either.

     There are three stages in achieving physical fitness. The concept: the idea of being in shape and the benefits that are idealized. The process: actually getting off the couch and doing the exercise on a regular basis. The results: A healthy and fit body and perhaps a longer, more enjoyable physical life. The problem with this is that people admire the concept and truly desire the results but rarely desire the process. Let’s open our Bibles to see how this parallels spiritual fitness.

 

     What is in a life of a Christian that should be admired? What benefits does a life in Christ hold that can be idealized by others? As Christians, we are to be walking advertisements for Christianity (Matthew 5:14-16; Philippians 2:12-16). Our life should shine like light in this dark world.

     There is much to be said about the characteristics of life in Christ. Consider the “honesty” and “integrity”. Christians honor their commitments to God (1 Peter 2:21-23 even as we follow the example of Christ); to our brethren (Romans 12:9-15; Hebrews 10:24-25); to our fellow man (Matthew 28:18-20). Also look at the presence of “peace” and “joy”. Christians are comforted by the knowledge of their relationship with God. We are His children (1 John 3:1) and joint heirs with Christ (Romans 8:16-18). Everyday that we live in faithful service we have this wonderful outlook called “hope”. Christians have a desire to live and a hope that will carry us beyond this life. We have the hope of God’s promises (Romans 5:1-11) and certainly the hope of Heaven, our place prepared (John 14:1-6).

     How many people desire a life of honesty and integrity that brings respect from God and man? How many people desire a life that is centered on peace and joy that increases focus and decreases the pitfalls of this temporal world? How many people desire a life that is filled with hope for today and the outlook of an everlasting tomorrow? The answer to each: Everyone.

 

     Spiritual fitness means eternal life as opposed to eternal condemnation. The end results of our diligent spiritual exercise in doing the will of God is great reward (Hebrews 10:35-39; 1 Peter 1:6-9). Spiritual fitness is the avoidance of the punishment due our sins (Romans 3:23, 6:23).

     The result of spiritual fitness is all the beauty of God’s glory—in Heaven (Revelation 21:10-27 [22-27]). That passage describes Heaven as a place with no need of a temple to worship God from a distance because God will be with us (v. 22). The Father and the Son light the everlasting day with their glory (v. 23). The saved will walk in the light of its beauty (v. 24). The gates of the city never need to be shut; no harm can befall us there (v. 25). It is a perfect place—sin shall by no means enter (v. 27). How many people want Heaven? Everyone!

 

     Even though the life of a Christian is admired and the goal of the Christian is desired…very few are willing to do what it takes to have them. Jesus said, “Few there are that find it [the way to life]” (Matthew 7:13-14). This means that few are willing to take the narrow way; few are willing to take the more difficult way; few will find what they have admired and desired.

     What is the difference between someone who owns a Bible and someone who exercises themselves in the Word? It is the same as one who owns a home gym and one who uses it regularly. One is in shape and one is not. We must get a Bible, but we also must do something with it. 1 Timothy 4:13, 15-16 instructs us to “read… meditate… give yourself entirely to it…” 2 Timothy 2:15 admonishes us to “be diligent to show yourself approved to God…” James 1:22-25 directs us to “Be doers of the word and not hearers only…” We must do something to get into shape spiritually. What are you doing?

 

     Everyone is seeking “peace” and “joy”. Everyone who has the ability of a rational mind desires everlasting life in Heaven. The great problem is few are willing to conform to the will of God resulting in the good life (Galatians 5:22-23). Few are willing to apply themselves to continuous obedience in order to have Heaven (Matthew 25:45-46)

     Where are you today? Do you see that life is better in Christ—it is! Do you want to make it to Heaven—you and I know you do! Are you willing to submit to God in order to get those things—because that is the process? Will you do what you need to do for spiritual fitness starting today?