Physical exercise has become very popular as millions of people are taking up walking, biking, skating or dozens of other activities. Perhaps the major reason for this increase is the discovery of the wonderful benefits of exercise. When considering the following list of major benefits of exercising, could it be that God was mistaken when He said, “For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come” (1 Tim. 4:8)?
MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM
Increases muscle strength * Increases flexibility of muscles and range of joint motion * Produces stronger bones, ligaments, and tendons * Lessens chance of injury * Enhances posture, poise, and physique.
BODILY PROCESSES
Improves the way the body handles dietary fat * Reduces heart disease risk * Helps lower blood cholesterol and triglycerides * Raises HDL, the “good” cholesterol * Helps improve calcium deposits in bones * Prevents osteoporosis * Improves immune function * Aids digestion and elimination * Increases endurance and energy levels * Promotes lean body mass, burns fat.
HEART AND BLOOD VESSELS
Lowers resting heart rate * Strengthens heart function * Lowers blood pressure * Improves oxygen delivery throughout the body * Increases blood supply to muscles * Enlarges the arteries to the heart.
MENTAL PROCESSES
Provides a natural release from pent-up feelings * Helps reduce tension and anxiety * Improves mental outlook and self-esteem * Helps relieve moderate depression * Improves the ability to handle stress * Stimulates improved mental function * Relaxes and improves sleep * Increases self-esteem.
Julian Whitaker, M.D., Dr. Whitaker’s Guide to Natural Healing, pp. 31-32
This list certainly reveals remarkable benefits, but, no, God was not mistaken. He knew about all these things (and, no doubt, many other benefits which man has yet to learn) long before doctors discovered them. The point that God is making is that, if physical exercise gives man such extensive and amazing benefits, but are considered little in comparison to spiritual exercise, then how truly astonishing must be the benefits of spiritual exercise!
The point is easy to see. Let’s exercise spiritually!!
Gary Henson