Exercise Helps to Honor God

If we are to honor God in all that we do (Colossians 3:17, 23), how might physical exercise help honor Him? The Apostle Paul wrote that the body is the “temple” of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). In fact, contrary to popular sentiment, he emphasized that our bodies are “not our own,” but instead belong to God. So, it would stand to reason that as we take good care of God’s temple—our body—we honor God. And regular physical exercise is one of the most powerful ways to take care of our bodies!

In the last two decades, an avalanche of research has poured forth demonstrating, in ever-greater detail, how powerful exercise is in improving mood and emotions, managing weight, strengthening the immune system, reducing inflammation, and even changing brain structures for the better (The Conversation, February 25, 2021). Physical exercise and simply moving the body regularly is one of the most powerful tools at our disposal for promoting health, preventing disease, and improving our mental outlook. God created us so that virtually everyone has access to this remarkable and effective tool. Exercise, to whatever extent one can incorporate it into his or her life, is one of the most helpful tools at our disposal for taking care of and even improving our body—the temple of God’s Holy Spirit.

Life is made up of choices, and many in our sedentary society choose not to take time to exercise. As a result, they miss out on many benefits. However, you can choose to make time for regular physical activity and not only enjoy the healthful results, but also honor God by taking care of His “temple.” To learn more about the benefits of physical activity and how to improve your exercise habits, be sure to read chapter three of our free booklet, Biblical Principles of Health.