Exercise that Matters
I stayed in Denver last night with Christian and Bridget. I spent the day with some errands around town and then a trip to the Capitol to testify on a bill related to Physical Therapy co-pays. We got the bill out of the Senate Committee by one vote. We are confident that it will move its way through the process to the Governor’s desk. I am thankful we were able to get our bill moved up to the top of the agenda so I could return home to Fort Collins by late afternoon.
It has been good to meet some Physical Therapists from around the State and share my story with them and to learn from them as well. The picture today is me at the Capitol with the leaders of the Physical Therapist’s Association that were present in support of the bill.
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… Keep yourself in training for a godly life. Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise is valuable in every way, because it promises life both for the present and for the future. This is a true saying, to be completely accepted and believed. 1 Timothy 4:7-9
I believe exercise is something that has been part of my life since I was a child. Whether it was formal exercise or practicing skills needed in basketball and baseball. I still remember my oldest cousin, Phil Gamble, who started his career as a fitness trainer, giving my brother and me a workout regimen to prepare us for baseball, when we were in our early teens.
Exercise and physical health has been a staple of our society and mindset for generations. Whether the “President’s Award for Physical Fitness” from the past or the current, “Let’s Move” initiative. We understand the discipline and dedication that is needed and the benefits that physical fitness provides.
We don’t however, always translate that into our spiritual life. We often hear of spiritual disciplines such as, Bible reading, prayer, worship, service and nod our heads about there importance, but struggle with putting them into action. Perhaps the excuses are the same as physical exercise, “I know I should, but I don’t have time.” However, I never heard anyone who was challenged to exercise physically, be cautioned about “being legalistic.” But I do remember a friend giving me caution when I was getting into running to “not become addicted.” I didn’t understand what he was talking about, but I did learn as time went on. If there are some things that we feel compelled to be part of our day, spiritual exercise should be as valuable as a good run, or bike ride.
Perhaps we need to move away from the concept of spiritual “discipline.” While it does take time and dedication, just like physical exercise, we still refer to physical exercise as a “program” or “routine.” But not discipline.
Paul in his writings does a good job contrasting the natural or temporal world with the spiritual and eternal world. This passage is one of those. He reminds us that physical training has limitations in terms of its benefit. Spiritual training has a temporal and eternal benefit. It is the “exercise program” that helps us in this world and prepares us for the next.
I believe “health” pleases and honors the Lord. That’s why we pray for healing and see the Lord answer our prayers. I believe physical training is a way we can honor the Lord. But we don’t have to live in an either or world. We can be those who practice good physical health and good spiritual health as well.
My goal in writing these daily blogs, is to challenge you with what challenges and speaks to me. I trust this is part of your spiritual routine and is contributing to a stronger faith and spiritual well being in your life.