The Bible encourages us to take care of our bodies, not only spiritually but physically as well. Just as working out helps us stay physically fit, the Bible highlights the importance of maintaining our spiritual well-being.
Our bodies are referred to as temples, and we are called to honor God with everything we do, including how we treat our physical selves.
Here are Bible verses that speak to the importance of discipline, endurance, and taking care of ourselves physically and spiritually:
Also Read: Bible Verses About Soldiers
Bible Verses About Working Out
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is within you, whom you have [received as a gift] from God, and that you are not your own [property]? You were bought with a price [you were actually purchased with the precious blood of Jesus and made His own]. So then, honor and glorify God with your body.”
Commentary: This verse highlights that our bodies are not merely physical vessels, but temples of the Holy Spirit. When we take care of our bodies through exercise, rest, and proper nutrition, we are honoring God. Recognizing that we were bought with a price — the blood of Jesus — should inspire us to treat our bodies with the utmost respect and care. Physical health is part of our spiritual discipline, as it allows us to serve God more effectively.
1 Timothy 4:8
“For physical training is of some value, but godliness [spiritual training] is of value in everything and in every way, since it holds promise for the present life and for the life to come.”
Commentary: Paul acknowledges the importance of physical training but emphasizes that spiritual discipline holds even greater value. Physical fitness is beneficial, but it should not overshadow our pursuit of godliness. Working out can be a metaphor for the discipline required to maintain our spiritual lives, reminding us that while we exercise our bodies, we must also exercise our faith.
Hebrews 12:11
“For the time being no discipline brings joy, but seems sad and painful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness [right standing with God and a lifestyle and attitude that seeks conformity to God’s will and purpose].”
Commentary: Discipline, whether physical or spiritual, often feels uncomfortable in the moment, but the long-term rewards are invaluable. Just as exercise strengthens the body, spiritual discipline strengthens our relationship with God. The “peaceful fruit of righteousness” is a reminder that enduring short-term discomfort leads to lasting peace and fulfillment in God’s will.
Proverbs 31:17
“She equips herself with strength [spiritual, mental, and physical fitness for her God-given task] and makes her arms strong.”
Commentary: This verse from Proverbs reminds us that physical strength is a gift from God, meant to be used for His purposes. The woman in this passage equips herself with strength not just physically, but spiritually and mentally as well. In the same way, when we work out and build physical strength, we should also focus on developing our spiritual and mental endurance to accomplish the tasks God has set before us.
Isaiah 40:31
“But those who wait for the Lord [who expect, look for, and hope in Him] will gain new strength and renew their power; they will lift up their wings [and rise up close to God] like eagles [rising toward the sun]; they will run and not become weary, they will walk and not grow tired.”
Commentary: This verse reassures us that when we place our hope and trust in God, He renews our strength. It can be compared to the way regular exercise renews and strengthens our bodies. Relying on God for strength allows us to face life’s challenges with endurance, similar to the perseverance needed in a physical workout routine.
1 Corinthians 9:24-25
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run [their very best to win], but only one receives the prize? Run [your race] in such a way that you may seize the prize and make it yours! Now every athlete who goes into training conducts himself temperately and restricts himself in all things. They do it to win a [crown] that withers, but we [do it to receive] an imperishable [crown that cannot wither].”
Commentary: The discipline of athletes serves as a metaphor for the Christian life. Just as athletes must train their bodies to compete, we must train our spirits to endure in our walk with Christ. The prize we seek is not temporary like a physical trophy, but eternal life with God. Training, both physically and spiritually, requires focus, discipline, and perseverance.
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all things [which He has called me to do] through Him who strengthens and empowers me [to fulfill His purpose—I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency; I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses me with inner strength and confident peace].”
Commentary: This well-known verse reminds us that our strength comes from Christ. Whether we are working out physically or facing spiritual challenges, we are empowered by God’s strength. This verse encourages believers to lean on Christ for strength in all areas of life, trusting that He equips us for every challenge, including maintaining our physical health.
Isaiah 40:29
“He gives strength to the weary, and to him who has no might He increases power.”
Commentary: This verse serves as a reminder that even in moments of physical or spiritual exhaustion, God is our source of strength. Like a person replenished after a strenuous workout, God renews and revitalizes us when we are weary. Trusting in Him gives us the endurance to continue, both physically and spiritually.
Psalm 18:32
“It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect.”
Commentary: This Psalm points to God as the ultimate source of our strength. Whether in physical tasks or spiritual endeavors, God equips us to fulfill His purposes. Just as we rely on physical training to strengthen our bodies, we rely on God to strengthen us for the challenges of life.
Proverbs 24:10
“If you are slack (careless) in the day of distress, your strength is limited.”
Commentary: This verse warns against complacency, both physically and spiritually. Just as lack of physical conditioning leads to weakness in times of challenge, spiritual complacency leaves us unprepared for life’s difficulties. The call here is to maintain both physical and spiritual fitness so that we can endure in times of trial.
3 John 1:2
“Beloved, I pray that in every way you may succeed and prosper and be in good health [physically], just as [I know] your soul prospers [spiritually].”
Commentary: In this verse, the connection between physical and spiritual health is made clear. The apostle John prays not only for the prosperity of the soul but for the health of the body as well. This reinforces the idea that God cares about our physical well-being and that maintaining our health allows us to better serve Him.
Romans 12:1
“Therefore I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies [dedicating all of yourselves, set apart] as a living sacrifice, holy and well-pleasing to God, which is your rational (logical, intelligent) act of worship.”
Commentary: This verse frames the care of our physical bodies as an act of worship. By offering our bodies to God, we acknowledge that every part of us belongs to Him. Whether through physical fitness or spiritual devotion, we dedicate ourselves fully to God’s service, making our lives a living sacrifice that brings glory to Him.
2 Timothy 2:5
“And if anyone competes as an athlete, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.”
Commentary: This verse uses the metaphor of an athlete to highlight the importance of discipline and following God’s commands. Just as athletes must follow specific training and competition rules, believers must adhere to God’s Word to receive the ultimate reward — eternal life with Christ. Discipline in both areas leads to success and fulfillment of God’s plan for our lives.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Growing Up
Colossians 3:23-24
“Whatever you do [whatever your task may be], work from the soul [that is, put in your very best effort], as [something done] for the Lord and not for men, knowing [with all certainty] that it is from the Lord [not from men] that you will receive the inheritance which is your [greatest] reward. It is the Lord Christ whom you [actually] serve.”
Commentary: This verse emphasizes that our efforts, including physical exercise, should be done as unto the Lord. Whether we are working out, working in our jobs, or serving others, we are ultimately serving Christ. This perspective helps us maintain the right motivation for our physical and spiritual discipline, recognizing that our reward comes from God, not from people.
Psalm 73:26
“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the rock and strength of my heart and my portion forever.”
Commentary: This Psalm acknowledges the limitations of our physical bodies, reminding us that while our flesh may fail, God is our ultimate source of strength. In moments of physical or spiritual weakness, we can rely on God’s unchanging strength to sustain us. This verse encourages us to find our strength in God, even when our physical endurance falls short.
2 Corinthians 12:9
“But He has said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you [My lovingkindness and My mercy are more than enough—always available—regardless of the situation]; for [My] power is being perfected [and is completed and shows itself most effectively] in [your] weakness.’ Therefore, I will all the more gladly boast in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may completely enfold me and may dwell in me.”
Commentary: Paul’s declaration that God’s strength is made perfect in weakness is a powerful reminder that we don’t need to rely solely on our own physical or spiritual abilities. When we are weak, God’s strength is magnified in us. This encourages us to lean on God in times of physical exhaustion or spiritual struggle, trusting that His power is more than sufficient to sustain us.
Ephesians 6:10
“In conclusion, be strong in the Lord [draw your strength from Him and be empowered through your union with Him] and in the power of His [boundless] might.”
Commentary: This verse calls believers to find strength in the Lord, rather than in their own abilities. Whether in physical fitness or spiritual battles, we are called to draw from God’s limitless strength. Recognizing that our strength comes from Him empowers us to face life’s challenges with confidence and perseverance.
Joshua 1:9
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified or dismayed (intimidated), for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Commentary: This powerful encouragement from God to Joshua reminds us that strength and courage come from God’s presence in our lives. Just as Joshua was called to lead with strength, we are called to approach physical and spiritual challenges with the confidence that God is with us. His presence is the source of our strength and courage.
Psalm 18:39
“For You have encircled me with strength for the battle; You have subdued under me those who rose up against me.”
Commentary: This verse illustrates that God equips us with the strength we need for every battle, whether physical or spiritual. Like a warrior trained for combat, we are strengthened by God to face the challenges that arise. Trusting in His power allows us to overcome adversity with confidence and assurance.
Nehemiah 8:10
“Then Ezra said to them, ‘Go your way, eat the rich festival food, drink the sweet drink, and send portions to him for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be worried, for the joy of the Lord is your strength and your stronghold.'”
Commentary: This verse reminds us that the joy of the Lord is our strength. In both physical and spiritual pursuits, joy can sustain us through difficult times. God’s joy gives us the strength we need to endure challenges and persevere in our calling. Joy is not just an emotional response but a source of divine strength that empowers us to continue.
Exodus 15:2
“The Lord is my strength and my song, and He has become my salvation; This is my God, and I will praise Him; My father’s God, and I will exalt Him.”
Commentary: In this song of praise, Moses declares that God is his strength. Whether in times of physical trial or spiritual battles, God is the source of our power and salvation. When we acknowledge that our strength comes from Him, we are able to give Him the glory for every victory, both physical and spiritual.
Psalm 27:1
“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the refuge and fortress of my life—whom shall I dread?”
Commentary: This verse emphasizes that when God is our strength and refuge, we have no reason to fear. Just as physical training prepares us for physical challenges, trusting in God prepares us to face life’s difficulties without fear. He is our ultimate protector and the source of our courage.
2 Corinthians 4:16
“Therefore we do not become discouraged [spiritless, disappointed, or afraid]. Though our outer self is [progressively] wasting away, yet our inner self is being [progressively] renewed day by day.”
Commentary: This verse acknowledges the reality that our physical bodies will eventually wear out, but our inner being is constantly renewed by God. While physical exercise is important for maintaining health, it is our spiritual renewal that sustains us in the long run. God’s presence refreshes us daily, providing the strength we need to endure both physical and spiritual challenges.
Matthew 11:28
“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavily burdened [by religious rituals that provide no peace], and I will give you rest [refreshing your souls with salvation].”
Commentary: Jesus invites us to come to Him when we are physically or spiritually weary. He promises rest and refreshment, both for our bodies and souls. Just as rest is essential after physical exertion, spiritual rest in Christ is crucial for maintaining our strength and peace. He offers us the rest that rejuvenates both body and spirit.
Psalm 29:11
“The Lord will give [unyielding and impenetrable] strength to His people; The Lord will bless His people with peace.”
Commentary: This verse emphasizes that God not only gives strength but also blesses His people with peace. In both physical and spiritual disciplines, peace is the reward of perseverance. When we trust in God for strength, we also receive His peace, which sustains us through life’s challenges and enables us to rest in His provision.
Galatians 6:9
“Let us not grow weary or become discouraged in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap, if we do not give in.”
Commentary: This verse encourages perseverance, both in physical and spiritual efforts. Just as we experience results in physical fitness over time, we will reap the rewards of spiritual endurance if we do not give up. Patience and perseverance are key in both areas, and this verse serves as a reminder that our labor is not in vain when we trust in God’s timing.
Jeremiah 17:7-8
“[Most] blessed is the man who believes in and trusts in and relies on the Lord, And whose hope and confidence is the Lord. For he will be [nourished] like a tree planted by the waters, That spreads out its roots by the river; And it will not fear the heat when it comes; But its leaves will be green and moist. And it will not be anxious and concerned in a year of drought Nor stop bearing fruit.”
Commentary: This verse compares those who trust in God to a tree that is nourished and strong, even in difficult circumstances. Just as physical exercise strengthens the body, spiritual reliance on God strengthens the soul. Trusting in God allows us to remain fruitful and resilient, no matter what challenges we face in life.
James 1:12
“Blessed [happy, spiritually prosperous, favored by God] is the man who is steadfast under trial and perseveres when tempted; for when he has passed the test and been approved, he will receive the [victor’s] crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.”
Commentary: This verse promises a reward for those who persevere through trials, both physical and spiritual. Just as athletes endure physical trials to receive a prize, believers are called to endure spiritual challenges to receive the crown of life. Perseverance in the face of difficulty is a mark of true faith, and God promises that our endurance will be rewarded.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Warriors
What Does the Bible Say About Working Out
You see, the Bible speaks about taking care of our bodies, and it’s important to understand that God gave us these amazing bodies as a gift. Just like any good gift, we are meant to take care of it, nurture it, and make sure it can carry us through life with strength and energy.
Working out, exercising, moving our bodies—whatever you want to call it—isn’t just about looking good, it’s about making sure we have the physical ability to do the things God has called us to do. Whether that’s caring for our families, serving in our communities, or simply having the energy to keep up with our daily tasks, taking care of our bodies helps us fulfill our purpose. It’s not always easy, and I know some of us would rather sit on the couch, but remember, God calls us to discipline in all areas of life, including how we treat our health.
When you work out, you are training yourself not only physically but also mentally and spiritually. Every push-up, every walk, every time you choose to get up and get moving, you are showing respect for the gift of life God has given you. And you know what? God smiles when He sees us taking care of what He’s entrusted to us.
So, don’t see exercise as a burden, see it as a way to glorify God with your actions, to live long and strong, and to be ready to answer His call, whatever that might be. Keep moving, keep trusting, and keep honoring God with the body He’s given you. Amen!