Life Lessons Learned
There’s a story about two legendary preachers that always makes me chuckle—and then think a little deeper. D.L. Moody, the famous American evangelist, paid a visit to C.H. Spurgeon, the beloved English preacher. Moody, who was notably heavyset, gently teased Spurgeon about his habit of smoking a pipe. With a clever grin, Spurgeon leaned forward and poked his pipe right into Moody’s belly, a not-so-subtle commentary on Moody’s own struggle with physical health. Two giants of the faith, each with their own visible weaknesses, reminded us all that the stewardship of our bodies is a conversation worth having.
Does the Bible speak to physical fitness? It certainly does, although perhaps not in the way we often think. In 1 Timothy 4:8, Paul writes, “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.” The Scripture doesn’t dismiss physical discipline; instead, it puts it in perspective. Training our bodies yields benefits—but training in godliness yields dividends in every area of life, both now and eternally.
Still, it’s clear that Scripture draws a direct line between the health of our bodies and the state of our spirits. Proverbs 3:7-8 says, “Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones.” Holistic well-being isn’t just a modern idea; it’s deeply biblical. Our physical health is intertwined with our spiritual condition, emotional peace, and relational well-being.
When I think of Jesus, I can hardly imagine Him as anything less than physically fit. Luke 2:52 provides a snapshot of His balanced growth: “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” Jesus matured intellectually, physically, spiritually, and socially. His example calls us to pursue a similar harmony in our lives.
Paul takes this further in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, reminding us, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.” Our bodies are not merely vessels to be used up but sacred spaces where the Spirit of God dwells. That alone ought to reshape how we view physical health. If we are ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20), doesn’t it make sense that we should present ourselves as people who take the stewardship of our bodies seriously?
I must admit, this lesson hit home for me years ago. In 1969, I returned from Asia utterly depleted—physically shot at just 33 years old. I realized I needed a change, so I started a swimming routine. Slowly, my health returned. Over the decades, I’ve maintained a fairly rigorous exercise regimen, and the benefits have far exceeded my expectations. Now in my senior years, I see how those daily decisions have paid off, not just in physical vitality but in maintaining a sharp spiritual edge.
There is a connection between physical discipline and spiritual alertness. When I’m diligent in caring for my body, I find that my mind is clearer, my prayers more focused, and my spirit more receptive to God’s guidance. It’s not about vanity or chasing a youthful physique—it’s about readiness. Readiness to serve, to listen, and to engage with the mission God has for me.
I often think of Romans 12:1, where Paul urges, “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” Our very bodies are acts of worship when surrendered to God’s purposes. Maintaining physical health can be an extension of that worship, a testimony to our gratitude for the life He has given us.
Of course, balance is key. As the writer of 1 Timothy acknowledged, physical training is valuable, but it mustn’t overshadow the greater pursuit of godliness. Still, neglecting our health under the guise of spiritual pursuits is equally unwise. It’s all interconnected—body, mind, and spirit.
Spurgeon and Moody’s humorous exchange offers a reminder that none of us have it all together. We all have areas of neglect or excess. But every day presents a fresh opportunity to realign our habits with our calling. Whether it’s adding a morning walk, choosing healthier meals, or simply getting enough rest, these small acts of stewardship honor the God who formed us.
So I pose the question to you, as I have to myself: What are you doing to maintain your temple in a manner that honors God? Not out of guilt or pressure, but out of reverence for the One who designed you, redeemed you, and indwells you. Our efforts in this area are not about achieving perfection but about living responsibly and faithfully with what we’ve been given.
Blessing:
Thank you for taking the time to reflect with me on this important life lesson. May you be encouraged to care for your body as an act of worship, not striving for worldly standards but seeking to honor God with every breath, every step, and every choice. May your journey toward better health be paired with an even greater pursuit of godliness, that both your body and spirit might be ready instruments in the hands of our loving Creator.
For further insight on honoring God with your body, visit: https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/spiritual-life/what-does-it-mean-that-your-body-is-a-temple.html
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