Keeping Fit Spiritually and Physically

by Larna Martin

The Bible does not separate man into constituent parts as we sometimes do. We speak of spirit, soul and body, and this is correct. We are a three part being – but they are not mutually exclusive. Too often, we focus on one to the detriment of the other, but God’s will for each one of us is WHOLENESS! He desires that we prosper, and that we are in health, even as our soul prospers (3 John 2).

It is no surprise that God in His Word makes a direct correlation between the body and the Spirit. Generally we feed our bodies approximately three times a day and, if you remember, Daniel (from the book of Daniel) would pray three times a day. There are many other comparisons that the Bible makes, likening God’s Word and Spirit to the nourishment we receive from food and drink. This suggests that the spirit needs just as much (if not more attention) than our physical bodies. So why do many of us tend to ignore them both, feeding both spirit and body on a poor diet?

We live in an electronic, computer age, where people can work from home glued to a square box for most of the day. Let’s face it, this is not the best posture for a strong body. I learnt a lot from a missionary out in Mexico, David Hogan, who would rise early (and still does to my knowledge), have fellowship with Jesus and his family, then go out for a long run. Exercising first his spirit, then his body, so he was fit enough for the mission that lay ahead of him.

I have tried to practise the same. As a family, we start the day together, rising rather earlier than I would prefer to seek God alone, then together with my family (husband and three kids). We share and discuss devotionals, praying and preparing for the day. After this, at least three times a week I go for a twenty minute run followed by a set of exercise disciplines. Other times I will exercise to a video, or take all three kids out for a brisk walk.

Remember, we can be strong in our spirit, but if the vessel that carries our spirit is broken down we will not be going anywhere! A balanced life is one that recognises that it is just as ‘spiritual’ to eat healthy food, as it is to pray two or three times a day. There is so much talk about holistic living today, so let us live holistically in the true sense of the word, giving attention to our spirit, our soul and our body, realising that all are necessary for us to fulfil our call in God’s Kingdom.
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Larna Martin has a strong and vibrant ministry of creativity. She loves above all to see others flourish in their God given gifts. You can read her latest book, “Developing God’s Team of Dancers” at www.praisedancetoday.com