Every New Year and then again in the Spring, health clubs experience a surge of people with new commitments to take care of their bodies. Those who are regulars, are annoyed that they now have to wait for treadmills and machines…of course, it all calms down in a month or two.
As the apostle Paul was charging Timothy to remind the church to avoid things that are potential pitfalls, he points out that exercising has some value, but nowhere near the value of spiritual fitness. So, if you’re turning over a new leaf, or you’ve resolved to get healthy…there are some good, biblical, pieces of wisdom that you need for real health. Quite frankly, going to the gym or getting in shape can lead you down a road that is detrimental to your spiritual health, so you need to get some things straight before you hit the weights. Here’s three basic principles to consider as you prepare for the gym:
- If at all possible, go with a friend who you trust spiritually. This will help you maintain integrity with your eyes (as there are temptations at the gym) and remind you of your ultimate purpose for getting healthy. Remember, our spiritual health is the primary concern and our physical health should be assisting us in that pursuit. A gym partner can not only keep you from potential pitfalls, but also sharpen you spiritually.
- Know who you are before you go. Don’t go to the gym to find yourself or to find a new you. Your identity is in Christ and he has wonderfully made you…if you are a Christ follower, you are a fellow heir with Christ. Take that identity with you and make that who you are…don’t search for an identity at the gym.
- Be real about your expectations and perspective. Ok, there are going to be a bunch of in-shape people at the gym…because, well, it’s the gym. So, set expectations for yourself and do not pay attention or compare yourself to others. Remember that any little bit that you are doing is a step in the right direction and will assist you in your primary goal of spiritual health. Do not forget, fellow Christian, that you are to carry the light of the gospel wherever you go, as you go. Therefore, we are not to get caught up in worldly perspectives, we are called to represent the gospel. Make sure your gym activities reflect Christ.
Being physically healthy can definitely help us become better gospel representatives. It helps our minds, our work ethic, our attentiveness, our energy, and a whole host of things. But, we must always, always, keep it in perspective with our spiritual health and calling. Don’t let pride creep in and make physical appearance an idol…or crave the wrong kind of attention. Going to the gym and physical fitness can bring so many benefits to our lives, but there are also some potential downfalls that need us to take action to protect ourselves.
So, enjoy the gym, enjoy your health journey, but put it in its proper place in what you are called to be as a Christ follower.
