We’ve got your daily encouragement, written by Polly Barcol.
Bible Reading:
1 Cor. 6:19-20
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
Word:
In John 10:10, Jesus stated that He came so that we could have what He termed, “abundant life” – in Greek, the word “abundant” means “all around”, “full”, “over-flowing”. While it was His death on the cross for our sins that made this full life an eternal reality, there are a variety of practices and rhythms that we can follow to experience this abundant life on a daily basis too!
For example, while Paul clearly stressed the ultimate importance of spiritual practices/disciplines in 1 Timothy 4:8, he did say that physical training has “value” also –
Physical training directly effects the brain promoting neural growth and the release of endorphins (powerful, all natural chemicals that energize your body and make you feel good) and recent studies at Harvard University show that exercise can actually reduce depression by about 30%! So, while Paul probably didn’t know those things, the Holy Spirit undoubtedly did and perhaps thats one reason He prompted the apostle to write what he did!
So – read your bible, pray fervently, be an active part of a local church, seek discipleship (offered and received), AND exercise regularly !
Prayer:
Lord, may I embrace how you have made me and enjoy the people you have put in my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen!
Skillwork:
Workout “20-20-20”
1 Thessalonians 5:23 says, “Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ”
This week see if you can strike a balance between your body, soul and Spirit by spending at least 20 minutes each day reading your Bible, praying, and exercising.
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