Soul Fitness

But reject profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness. For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.

I Timothy 4:7-8

Just as training the body for physical strength and endurance requires commitment, time, perseverance and growth, so does spiritual strength and endurance training.

Soul Fitness Requires Commitment

First, you must commit your whole life to Christ through salvation. Wellness apart from Christ is impossible. Then, commit to allow Christ to change you into His image. This means to allow His truth to direct your choices in every area of your life.

Soul Fitness Requires Time

As with exercise, many people use the lack of time as an excuse to avoid or skip spiritual training. We all have the same 24 hours in a day. Unfortunately, we waste time doing unimportant, less valuable activities such as mindlessly watching TV or surfing the internet for useless information or worse. Plan your day and schedule time to spend alone with God.

Soul Fitness Requires Perseverance

Even as a believer, life is difficult. Distractions, disasters, trials and tests are all part of life. Staying faithful to your spiritual training may not change your circumstances but it will always change you. When we are spiritually fit we think clearer, have more patience, make wise, godly choices, relate better to other people, control our temper, act lovingly, and exhibit self-control. Spiritual fitness directly impacts emotional, mental, and physical health throughout life.

Soul Fitness Requires Growth

Just as muscles strengthen and grow when challenged with a weight, we mature spiritually as we exercise our spiritual muscles. Growth, both physically and spiritually, takes time, commitment and perseverance. As you learn more about who Christ is through His Word, you begin to think like Jesus. As you think more like Jesus, you begin to act more like Jesus. And as you act more like Jesus, you reflect His love, glory and power to others through your every day life. Then, and only then, are you on the path toward spiritual fitness.

So, what is your soul fitness level right now? Use these soul fitness markers to check your progress. Ask God to show you where you are weak and where you are stronger, where you are growing and where you are on a plateau. Then, commit, invest time, persevere and grow in your spiritual fitness level!