In today’s world, where the pursuit of physical fitness and health has often become a testament to self-discipline and determination, it’s inspiring to see individuals dedicating themselves to improving their bodies. As someone who values the resilience and strength of the human body, you might be surprised to find that the Bible, too, holds physical fitness in high regard, using it as a powerful illustration of spiritual truths.
Consider the metaphor of running a race, used in Hebrews 12:1, “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.” Just as a runner strips away any excess weight to perform their best, we are encouraged to shed the burdens of sin and distractions, focusing on our spiritual journey with endurance.
In 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, the Apostle Paul also uses an athletic metaphor: “Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.” Here, the discipline of an athlete is likened to the Christian life, emphasizing self-control and the pursuit of an eternal reward, unlike the temporary accolades of worldly achievements.
This emphasis on spiritual discipline and the eternal perspective doesn’t negate the value of caring for our physical bodies, described as temples of the Holy Spirit in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20: “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” Maintaining our physical health is part of honoring God with our entire being.
Yet, despite our best efforts, our physical bodies are temporal. Ecclesiastes 12:7 reminds us, “Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it.” No matter how diligently we work out, eat right, and care for our bodies, the inevitable truth is that our earthly existence is finite. This realization brings us to a pivotal question: Are we as diligent in preparing our souls for eternity as we are in maintaining our physical fitness?
Consider your spiritual health as you continue to push your physical limits and strive for excellence. Are you prepared for eternity? Have you accepted the gift of salvation that only Jesus Christ offers? Just as you would not neglect your physical training, do not neglect your spiritual well-being. The ultimate prize is not a blue ribbon that fades or muscles that eventually weaken but an everlasting life in the presence of God.
John 3:16 assures us of this promise: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” This verse is not just a cornerstone of Christian belief; it’s an open invitation to everyone, regardless of their past or present state. It speaks of a profound love that bridges the gap between our imperfection and God’s perfect holiness.
Accepting Christ as your Savior is the most significant step you can take toward ensuring your eternal well-being. Here’s how you can begin this transformative journey:
Acknowledge Your Need: Recognize that you are a sinner needing salvation. Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Our sins separate us from a holy God, and there’s nothing we can do on our own to bridge that gap.
Stop Trusting Yourself: Have faith that Jesus Christ died for your sins and rose again, as the Scriptures say. John 14:6 tells us, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” Believing in Jesus means trusting that He alone can save you.
Believe Jesus Alone: Romans 10:9 assures us, “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” Profess your belief in Jesus and Him alone.
Receive Christ: Ask Jesus to save you! Romans 10:9-10 says “For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”
Live for Christ: Once you have accepted Christ, strive to live a life that honors Him, relying on His strength and guidance. Baptism follows salvation as wan outward expression of your inner faith, and regular fellowship with other believers will help you grow in your new faith.
If you’re ready to make this decision, you can pray something like this: “Lord Jesus, I know I am a sinner, and I cannot save myself. I believe You died for my sins and rose again. I repent of my sins and invite You to be my Saviour. I want to trust and follow You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Remember, it’s not the words of the prayer that save you, but your faith in Jesus Christ. If you have made this decision today, please get in touch with us using the info below.
May your pursuit of physical health accompany a profound, more fulfilling journey toward eternal spiritual wellness. God bless you as you consider these eternal truths.
