
I have sometimes wondered what my body would say if it had a real voice and remembered all the commitments I have made to it…Workout more, drink more water. I have gone to the extent of joining some health accountability groups to keep me motivated, but its clearly not an easy journey. I need daily motivation. As a christian, I am called to honour and care for my body and so are you, as our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). One powerful way to do this is by developing a daily habit of working out. Exercise not only benefits our physical health but also has numerous spiritual and mental benefits that can help us grow in our faith. In this blog, we will explore how to build a daily habit of working out and how it can strengthen our bodies and our relationship with God.
Prioritise Your Health: Just as we make time for daily prayer and reading the Bible, we must prioritise our physical health as well. Set aside a specific time each day for exercise, whether it’s in the morning, during lunch break, or in the evening. Treat it as an important appointment with yourself and with God. Remember, taking care of our bodies is an act of stewardship, and when we are healthy, we are better equipped to serve God and others.
Start Small and Be Consistent: It’s important to start small and be consistent when developing a daily habit of working out. Begin with an exercise routine that is manageable for your fitness level and schedule. It could be a short walk, a 10-minute workout, or a gentle stretch. The key is to be consistent and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts over time. Consistency is key in building a habit that becomes a natural part of your daily routine.
Involve God in Your Workouts: As Christians, we believe that our faith is not limited to Sunday worship but should permeate every aspect of our lives, including our workouts. Involve God in your workouts by offering prayers of gratitude for your body and its abilities, seeking God’s strength and guidance as you push yourself physically, and using your workout time as an opportunity for worship and reflection. You can also listen to uplifting Christian music or podcasts during your workouts to nourish your spirit while you strengthen your body.
Embrace the Benefits: Regular exercise has numerous benefits for our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Exercise helps to reduce stress, improve mood, increase energy levels, boost brain function, and promote better sleep – all of which can positively impact our faith journey. When we take care of our bodies, we are better equipped to fulfil God’s purposes for our lives and have the energy and stamina to serve Him and others more effectively.
Stay Accountable: Building a daily habit of working out can be challenging, and it’s helpful to have accountability partners who can support and encourage you on your journey. Share your fitness goals with a trusted friend, family member, or fellow believer who can hold you accountable, offer motivation, and celebrate your progress. You can also join a Christian exercise group or class to connect with like-minded individuals who can inspire and challenge you to stay committed to your workouts.
Developing a daily habit of working out is not only beneficial for our physical health but also for our faith journey. By prioritising our health, starting small, involving God, embracing the benefits, and staying accountable, we can build a healthy habit that honours God and helps us become physically, mentally, and spiritually strong. So, let’s lace up our sneakers, put on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18), and embark on a journey of building a strong body and a stronger faith. Remember, you are not alone, for God is with you every step of the way. God bless you!