“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» (1 Timothy 4:7, 8).
THOSE WHO THINK that, in this text, Paul is dismissing caring for our bodies are wrong. He himself had said that it is a temple of the Holy Spirit and that we are property that was bought by God (l Cor. 6:19, 20).
Caring for our body requires effort and exercising mercy involves commitment. Caring for our body is of little profitability (1 Tim. 4:8) in the sense that it is limited to this life, while exercising godliness projects us to eternity. The crown of life is much more precious than a trophy or wreath obtained in a race.
Of course, physical exercise benefits both body and mind, reducing hypertension, decreasing the chances of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and depression, among other benefits. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends two and a half total hours of moderate physical activity distributed throughout the week.
Here are some tips to get started with physical activity: Find a suitable place to exercise, such as a park, nature center, and the like. Then identify with an activity that does not require being in good shape. Next, begin to exercise near your house, without having to travel far, Finally, get help to maintain this habit. It is good to involve our family and friends in physical activity.
As for exercising toward godliness, daily doses of prayer, meditation, self-examination, fellowship, service, and testimony are recommended. Paul says this is what we fight for, like an athlete, to the fullest of our abilities, with effort and commitment
Exercising toward godliness benefits not only us, but also those we influence. We must set an example with our words, through genuine, transparent, truthful and kind speech. We must set an example with our behavior, through habits and lifestyle. Paul loved Timothy because Timothy loved God. His intelligent knowledge of experimental piety and of the truth gave him distinction and influence . . . The moral influence of his home was substantial, not fitful, not impulsive, not changeable. The Word of God was the rule which guided Timothy (SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 7, p. 918).
Let us perform physical and godly exercises. They are vital to the body and soul; for this life and for eternity.