1 Timothy 4:8
"For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come." 1 Timothy 4:8 (Read 1 Timothy 4)
Exercise is important for our bodies, but its benefits are little in comparison to living a godly and Christian life. Bodily exercise does profit or benefit us a little; it may keep us healthier and even lengthen our earthly lives. We may feel better and be more able to do our work and carry out our responsibilities through regular physical exercise. But godliness is profitable for all things. God promises to bless those who exercise themselves in godliness, both in this life and also in the life which is to come!
This is all the more reason for us to continue in God's Word and in prayer, and to live our lives according to that Word. It is through the Word of the Gospel that we have been brought to trust in Christ as our Savior; and it is through that same Word that the Holy Spirit continues to strengthen and keep us in the faith (cf. 2 Tim. 3:15ff.; Rom. 1:16-17; 10:17; 2 Thess. 2:13-14; Phil. 1:6). Through the Word, we are assured that Christ died for our sins and redeemed us--that we are acceptable in God's sight and have His forgiveness for our sins (cf. Eph. 1:6,7; 1 Pet. 3:18). And, through the Word, we also learn of the blessings which God gives to those who
follow Him and keep His commandments (cf. Ps. 1:1-3; Deut.
Dear Gracious Father, we thank Thee for redeeming us from sin and everlasting torment through the holy life and innocent sufferings and death of The Son, Jesus Christ. Grant that we not only exercise and care for our bodies, but also our souls. By Thy Holy Spirit, nourish and build us up in the true faith through Thy Word. Move us to love Thee and live our lives for Thee because of Thy great love for us in sending Thine own dear Son to die for us and redeem us. Keep us in the one true faith that we may enjoy Thy blessings, not only in this life, but also in that which is to come, and worship and glorify Thy holy name forevermore. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.