“Some Christians believe it is selfish to take time to exercise or view it as a waste of time, but our bodies are gifts from God. We are stewards, in a sense, so it’s important to take time to care for them. By being fit and healthy, we are also better able to carry out our God-given vocation on earth. Here are a few quotes from Scripture to serve as motivation.” – beliefnet.com
1 Corinthians 9:26-27
“Thus I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight as if I were shadowboxing. No, I drive my body and train it, for fear that, after having preached to others, I myself should be disqualified.”
Don’t make exercise a half-hearted endeavor! Set goals, create a plan, and then execute it. Don’t be afraid to pray for help.
Isaiah 40:29-31
“He gives power to the faint, abundant strength to the weak. Though young men faint and grow weary, and youths stagger and fall, they that hope in the LORD will renew their strength, they will soar on eagles’ wings; They will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint.”
God will help you and reward your fitness efforts, if they are done in His service and not out of vanity or selfishness. Put your trust in God, and He will guide you.
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all things in Him who strengthens me.”
Nothing is impossible with God! Certainly we have to look at our human limits—it would be difficult to run a marathon if you are in your 60’s with severe arthritis—but don’t be afraid to set lofty goals. Dedicate your workouts to Christ and see if that doesn’t make a difference.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been purchased at a price. Therefore, glorify God in your body.”
Your workouts can give glory to God. You can pray while you walk, meditate while you swim or simply put yourself in God’s presence in the weight room. The possibilities are endless.
Proverbs 24:5, 31:17
“A wise man is full of strength, and a man of knowledge enhances his might.” “She girds herself with strength; she exerts her arms with vigor.”
It’s important to include strength training exercises as part of your fitness program. Not only will everyday chores and activities become easier, but you will also strengthen your bones. Try lifting weights, using stretch cords or bands, medicine balls, kettlebells, or simple body weight calisthenics.
1 Corinthians 9:25
“Every athlete exercises discipline in every way. They do it to win a perishable crown, but we an imperishable one.”
Discipline is critical for success in both your spiritual life and in a fitness program. Try keeping a journal to chart your progress. You can use one section to log your exercise goals and accomplishments and another to record your spiritual aspirations and successes.
2 Timothy 4:7
“I have competed well; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith.”
To really get motivated, sign up for a race or event and train for it. Better yet, ask a friend or family member to join you and train together. Fitness is important and can give us more energy to help others, but it’s crucial to keep your focus on the ultimate goal—eternal life in heaven.
http://www.beliefnet.com/faiths/galleries/7-bible-verses-to-motivate-you-to-exercise.aspx
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