1 Timothy 4:8, New King James Version

"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 admit I go to the gym and maybe you do too, but is your spirit suffering? While it feels good to be in decent shape, in the eternal it is a waste of time. When we pass into eternity we don’t take our physical bodies with us, so killing yourself in the gym is all in vain.

The statement "Physical exercise is good, but spiritual exercise is better" is a direct reflection of the biblical principle found in 1 Timothy 4:8, which states that while physical training has limited benefits, training for godliness (spiritual exercise) is beneficial in every way. 

Why is this?

Physical training has limited value.

Physical exercise has limited value. It is beneficial for health, energy, and temporary life on earth. It is often described as "profitable for little," as it only improves the body and does not produce eternal life.

Spiritual Exercise has value and is profitable for every area of life: personal, family, work, and community. It builds eternal character, faith, and wisdom, resulting in rewards that last forever. 

Scripture does not condemn caring for the body; in fact, it is encouraged as stewardship of the "temple of the Holy Spirit". However, its benefits are limited to this earthly life and stop at the grave.

Spiritual Training (which is better): Godliness—often defined as active reverence or living in a way that reflects God's character—is described as profitable for "all things." Things now and eternally.

What are the benefits of "This Life"? Spiritual exercise brings immediate, practical benefits to daily life.

Peace and Contentment: Replaces anxiety with peace (Philippians 4:6-7) and provides contentment that frees you from constant striving.

Character Development: Nurtures virtues like love, patience, and kindness. 

What are the benefits of the "Life to Come" (Heaven)?

Unlike physical fitness, which cannot extend life beyond its natural span, spiritual growth has eternal significance. It is an investment that yields everlasting rewards and prepares the inner person for eternity.

What does spiritual exercise look like in practice?

Just as physical training requires discipline, spiritual training (godliness) involves active, consistent dedication, including… 

Study of Scripture: Feeding on the Word of God.

Prayer: Regular communication with God.

Fellowship: Community with other believers.

As with everything, we need to find balance.

The scriptural view does not condemn taking care of the body, which is seen as a "temple of the Holy Spirit". Instead, it advises balancing both, ensuring that the time and effort invested in physical fitness do not overshadow the much more important training of the soul. 

So, we need balance. A balanced perspective's aim is not to abandon physical exercise but to prioritize spiritual training. The ideal is to maintain a balanced life: caring for the physical body while making sure the spirit is not "flabby" So, pick up your spiritual weights and get your spirit in good shape!