Regular workouts are one of my passions. I take immense joy in maintaining a healthy body, even in my 40s. While it does require time away from my family and demands a lot of effort, I embrace it wholeheartedly because I witness the benefits every day. Staying fit has made it easier for me to engage in various physical activities and assist others with heavy lifting.
However, I sometimes wonder if these earthly efforts will yield eternal benefits. I often read how knowledge transcends to eternity. e.g. the rich man in the parable of the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31) remembers his brothers, and the saints under the altar in Revelation 6:10 remembered the suffering they suffered on earth. Earthly remembrances, experiences, and efforts can effect what happens in eternity. This concern is difficult to share with fellow believers, as I don’t see many pursuing the same path. Yet, through my exploration of scripture, I’ve found several insights that give me hope of some benefits in my endeavor.
1. Spiritual Discipline
Exercise requires discipline and commitment, qualities that are also valuable in our spiritual lives. The discipline we develop through regular workouts can strengthen our spiritual practices, making us more resilient and focused in our walk with God.
“But I discipline my body and keep it under control lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.” – 1 Corinthians 9:27, ESV
2. A Glorious Body
Many believe that in heaven, we will have glorified bodies, free from pain and suffering. While our earthly workouts may not directly impact our heavenly forms, the care and respect we show for our bodies on earth reflect our gratitude for the gift of life. This attitude of gratitude and care can enrich our heavenly existence, making us more appreciative of the eternal gift we’ve been given.
“So is it with the resurrection of the dead. What is sown is perishable; what is raised is imperishable. It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness; it is raised in power. It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body.” – 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, ESV
“For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands” – 2 Corinthians 5:1, NIV
These verses reassures us of the eternal, divine nature of our heavenly bodies, contrasting them with our temporary earthly forms.
3. Enhanced Ministry in Old Age
Maintaining a healthy body through regular exercise can lead to better health in old age. This improved health allows us to continue serving others and ministering effectively, even in our later years. By staying active in latter years, it will not only enriches our lives but also adds to our treasure in heaven.
“They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green” – Psalm 92:14, NIV
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” – Matthew 6:19-21, NIV
By embracing a healthy lifestyle, we not only enhance our earthly lives but also enable ourselves to serve more effectively, benefiting both our lives and the lives of those around us. Let’s continue to take care of the temple of the Holy Spirit, which is our bodies, knowing that our dedication will be rewarded in heaven.
Angga
4/24/2025