Good morning, friends! Today is Wednesday 25th September 2024, and while the date itself may not jump out as particularly momentous on a global calendar, it’s a day to remember something significant: National Fitness Day in the UK. Yes, today we’re encouraged to get moving, stay active, and think about our health. But before you roll your eyes at the thought of doing a few more squats or taking an extra walk around the block, let’s pause to reflect on the deeper, spiritual side of being fit—not just in body, but in spirit.
Spiritual Fitness: Strengthened by Grace
We often hear about physical fitness, but what about spiritual fitness? Just as we work out to keep our bodies healthy, we need to exercise our faith and spirit to grow in our relationship with God. The Apostle Paul often used athletic imagery in his letters to the early church. In 1 Timothy 4:8, he writes, “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.”
While taking care of our physical health is important, spiritual health is vital. After all, we’re not just preparing for the here and now, but for eternity. Our spiritual fitness helps us face life’s challenges, gives us peace in the storms, and strengthens our relationship with God. And just like physical fitness, it takes intentionality, perseverance, and consistency to grow spiritually.
Training with God’s Word
Imagine trying to run a marathon without training. You’d be gasping for breath by mile one! Similarly, we can’t expect to thrive spiritually if we neglect time with God. The Bible is our guidebook, our training manual for life. It gives us wisdom, direction, and comfort. Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
Engaging with Scripture is like giving our spiritual muscles a workout. It’s through God’s Word that we build spiritual stamina and find the strength to navigate life’s ups and downs.
Keep Going – Even When It’s Tough
Let’s face it, maintaining fitness—whether physical or spiritual—can be hard work. There are days when we just don’t feel like doing it. The same applies to our spiritual walk. There will be times when praying feels difficult, when reading the Bible seems like a chore, and when the demands of life push faith to the back burner.
But here’s the good news: we don’t have to do it alone. Philippians 4:13 reminds us, “I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.” It’s not about trying harder in our own power but relying on God’s grace to sustain us.
Just as a personal trainer pushes an athlete to go further than they thought possible, God equips us to grow spiritually in ways we never imagined. And the best part? His grace is sufficient for every moment—when we feel strong and when we feel weak.
A Moment to Reflect
Today, as you consider the idea of fitness—whether spiritual or physical—remember that God desires for you to grow in both body and spirit. He’s given you everything you need to run the race with endurance and grace.
Reflection Verse
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” – Hebrews 12:1
Reflection Question with Action Step
Where in your spiritual walk do you feel ‘out of shape’?
Action Step: Take 10 minutes today to sit quietly with God. Ask Him to show you where you need to grow spiritually and commit to making time for His Word daily.
Encouraging Action
Why not incorporate a little bit of physical and spiritual fitness today? Go for a walk while listening to a worship song or an uplifting podcast. Use this time to pray and reflect on God’s goodness in your life.
