Recently, I went to the doctor for my annual physical. Outwardly, I looked good with no apparent issues, but when I received the results from the general bloodwork, it turned out I had a variety of different issues going on including a vitamin deficiency and an autoimmune disease. The doctor and I discussed an action plan to help improve these areas. I was told to take a couple of vitamin supplements and include some high intensity workouts in my exercise routine to strengthen my heart muscles and body in general. A few days later I started a new exercise routine and made some modifications to my diet. While making these needed adjustments, I couldn't help but think... How is our spiritual exercise routine?

While it is important be good stewards of these earthly bodies God has given us, it is of even greater importance to strengthen our spiritual "muscles". We can strengthen the muscles of our faith by getting up each morning and choosing to trust God and having an attitude of gratitude. We can feed our faith by reading God's word and having constant communication with him through prayer. And when we need time to reenergize or heal, we can rest in the arms of our Father and let Him speak to us and give us direction and motivation.

Taking care of our bodies will help us be readily available for the physical work God has planned for us, but spiritual exercise will strengthen our hearts as we humbly serve God by compassionately serving others. Not only will we be better prepared for this life, but also for the life to come when we see our Lord face to face.

Suggested prayer: Dear God, thank you for this body which You created. Teach me to be a good steward of my physical health, but even more importantly, of my spiritual health. Help me exercise my faith by spending time in your Word and being in communication with you, and by doing so, be prepared for this life and the life to come. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus' name, amen.

1. 1 Timothy 4:8 (NLT).