SPIRITUAL WORKOUT

“…Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness [keeping yourself spiritually fit]. For physical training is of some value, but godliness [spiritual training] is of value in everything and in every
way, since it holds promise for the present life and for the life to come.” 1Timothy 4:7-8 [AMP]
An individual once told me that she does not get anything out of the church services when she attends church on Sundays. I was left amazed, because we cannot wait until Sunday Mornings to get our spiritual workout. We need to be on a spiritual high when we enter the Sanctuary on Sunday Mornings.

Spiritual health brings satisfaction and happiness, just as physical health does. However, we cannot get healthy spiritually by joining a Zumba class or running a marathon. Spiritual health
requires spiritual exercises, that entails being in the word of God and prayers.

For spiritual growth, nothing can take the place of prayer. Simply spending time with God, thanking Him for the many gifts and blessings He has bestowed upon us. Praising God during
the good times and the bad times; asking for guidance, admitting our sins and asking forgiveness and help.
In a letter to his young assistant Timothy, the Apostle Paul wrote, “discipline yourself toward godliness.” The Apostle compared physical fitness with spiritual fitness by telling us to take time
to keep ourselves spiritually fit. Bodily fitness has a certain value, but spiritual fitness is essential, both for this present life and for the life to come. [1 Timothy 4:7-8]

We will grow as we set a good example in our speech and behavior, in our love, faith and sincerity [1 Timothy 4:12]. Moreover, keep a critical eye on yourself [verse 16]. From time to
time, ask yourself how you are doing spiritually–and take the spiritual steps necessary to continue growing.

Here is how we can check our own spiritual health:

1. A spiritually healthy person has a definite goal.
Abraham’s goal was to reach the land God had in store for him. Paul’s goal was to reach
the entire world for Christ. What is your goal for this month? This day? Think big–God
will help you!
2. A spiritual healthy person is realistically humble.
Paul, probably the greatest saint of all time, called himself “less than the least of all
saints” [Ephesians 3:8]. He reminds us not to feel self-important with the question “What
do you have that you did not receive?” All believers are equal recipients of God’s
blessings. However, we need to have an encouraging attitude of gratitude rather than
boastfulness. [1 Corinthians 4:7]
3. A spiritual healthy person is confident.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” [Philippians 4:13]. When we are
spiritually healthy, we have a sense of purpose, a positive outlook, and a clear set of
values.
4. A spiritual healthy person is optimistic.
They believe God is on their side and all will be well. “And we know that in all things God
works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His
purpose” [Romans 8:28 NIV].

Faith Step:
I encourage you to start taking steps today towards becoming more spiritually fit!

Let us Pray:
Lord, I pray that You would fill us with spiritual strength to withstand the enemy's attacks. Help us to discern truth from lies and to stand firm in our beliefs. Fill our hearts with love and compassion toward others, just as You have showered Your love upon us.

As you taught us to pray: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen!

Written by Donnis Prass