Physical fitness and maintaining a healthy body are important aspects of overall well-being, and the Bible provides wisdom on how we should view our bodies and care for them. While the Bible may not specifically address modern workout routines, it does emphasize the importance of discipline, stewardship of the body, and balancing physical training with spiritual growth. These verses offer insight and encouragement for those who are committed to taking care of their physical health as part of their service to God. Here are 30 Bible verses about working out, each accompanied by a brief commentary to provide deeper understanding and reflection.
1. 1 Timothy 4:8
“For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.”
Balancing physical and spiritual health. Paul acknowledges the value of physical exercise, but he emphasizes that spiritual growth has greater, eternal value. This verse encourages a balanced approach, recognizing the importance of physical fitness while prioritizing spiritual development.
2. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.”
Respecting the body as God’s temple. This verse teaches that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and we should care for them accordingly. Working out and maintaining physical health is part of honoring God with our bodies.
3. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
“Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.”
Discipline in training. Paul compares the Christian life to athletic training, emphasizing discipline and self-control. This passage encourages believers to be disciplined in all areas of life, including physical fitness, while keeping their focus on eternal rewards.
4. Philippians 4:13
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Strength through Christ. This verse reminds us that our strength comes from Christ, who empowers us to overcome challenges, including those related to physical fitness. It encourages relying on God’s strength in our workout routines and overall health.
5. Isaiah 40:31
“But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.”
Renewed strength from God. This verse promises renewed strength for those who trust in the Lord. It serves as an encouragement to rely on God’s power for physical endurance and stamina, both in exercise and in life’s challenges.
6. Hebrews 12:11
“Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.”
The fruit of discipline. This verse speaks to the value of discipline, even when it is challenging. It reminds us that the discipline required in working out, though sometimes difficult, produces beneficial results in both our physical and spiritual lives.
7. Proverbs 24:5
“A wise man is strong, yes, a man of knowledge increases strength.”
Strength through wisdom. This verse highlights the connection between wisdom and strength. It encourages us to pursue knowledge and wisdom, which in turn can enhance our physical and mental strength, contributing to a healthier lifestyle.
8. 2 Timothy 2:5
“And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.”
Integrity in training. Paul uses the analogy of athletics to emphasize the importance of competing with integrity. This verse reminds us that discipline and adherence to proper principles in working out are essential for achieving lasting results.
9. Proverbs 31:17
“She girds herself with strength, and strengthens her arms.”
Physical strength and preparation. This verse describes the virtuous woman who takes care of her physical health and strength. It encourages believers, particularly women, to be diligent in maintaining their physical fitness as part of their overall well-being.
10. Psalm 18:32-34
“It is God who arms me with strength, and makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of deer, and sets me on my high places. He teaches my hands to make war, so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.”
God as the source of strength. This passage acknowledges that physical strength and ability come from God. It encourages believers to rely on God’s provision of strength in their physical endeavors, including exercise and training.
11. Ephesians 6:10
“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.”
Strength in the Lord. Paul urges believers to find their strength in the Lord. This verse encourages us to draw on God’s power for our physical and spiritual strength, reminding us that true strength comes from Him.
12. 3 John 1:2
“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.”
Health and prosperity. John expresses his desire for believers to experience good health, alongside spiritual prosperity. This verse encourages the pursuit of physical health as a reflection of overall well-being and spiritual vitality.
13. Nehemiah 8:10
“Then he said to them, ‘Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.'”
Joy as a source of strength. Nehemiah reminds the people that the joy of the Lord is their strength. This verse encourages finding strength in the joy that comes from God, which can invigorate both our physical and spiritual lives.
14. Colossians 1:11
“Strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy.”
Endurance through God’s power. This verse speaks of being strengthened by God’s power to endure challenges with patience and joy. It reminds us that our physical training can be an opportunity to develop endurance and resilience, relying on God’s strength.
15. 1 Corinthians 10:31
“Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
Glorifying God through physical care. Paul urges believers to do everything for the glory of God, including how they care for their bodies. This verse encourages us to approach physical fitness and health as acts of worship, honoring God with our bodies.
16. Joshua 1:9
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Courage and strength. God’s command to Joshua to be strong and courageous can be applied to physical endeavors as well. This verse encourages believers to approach their workouts with confidence and strength, knowing that God is with them.
17. Psalm 73:26
“My flesh and my heart fail; but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”
God as our ultimate strength. This verse acknowledges human limitations while affirming that God is our true source of strength. It encourages believers to turn to God for strength, even when their physical bodies feel weak.
18. 2 Corinthians 4:16
“Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day.”
Renewal of the inner self. Paul contrasts the decline of the physical body with the renewal of the inner self. This verse encourages believers to focus on spiritual renewal, even as they maintain physical health through exercise and care.
19. Proverbs 20:29
“The glory of young men is their strength, and the splendor of old men is their gray head.”
Strength and wisdom. This proverb acknowledges the value of physical strength in youth and the wisdom that comes with age. It encourages us to appreciate and maintain our physical strength while also valuing the growth in wisdom over time.
20. Psalm 18:32
“It is God who arms me with strength, and makes my way perfect.”
Empowerment from God. This verse recognizes that God provides the strength needed to succeed in any endeavor. It serves as a reminder that while physical exercise is important, our ultimate strength and success come from God.
21. 1 Peter 5:10
“But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.”
Strength after trials. Peter encourages believers that after enduring challenges, God will strengthen and establish them. This verse can be applied to the perseverance required in physical training, reminding us that endurance leads to greater strength.
22. Isaiah 40:29
“He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength.”
God’s provision of strength. This verse emphasizes God’s ability to give strength to those who are weary. It encourages believers to seek God’s strength in times of physical or spiritual weakness, trusting in His ability to renew their energy.
23. Psalm 144:1
“Blessed be the Lord my Rock, who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle.”
God as our trainer. David praises God for equipping him with the skills and strength needed for battle. This verse serves as a reminder that God is the ultimate source of our abilities, including our physical strength and training.
24. Proverbs 3:7-8
“Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh, and strength to your bones.”
Spiritual health and physical well-being. This proverb links spiritual wisdom with physical health, suggesting that living in reverence to God contributes to overall well-being. It encourages a holistic approach to health, where spiritual and physical care go hand in hand.
25. Psalm 18:39
“For You have armed me with strength for the battle; You have subdued under me those who rose up against me.”
Strength for challenges. This verse acknowledges God’s role in providing the strength needed to face challenges. It serves as a reminder that God equips us with the physical and spiritual strength required to overcome obstacles.
26. Psalm 46:1
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
God as our strength and refuge. This verse assures believers that God is their source of strength and protection. It encourages turning to God for strength in all areas of life, including the physical challenges of maintaining health and fitness.
27. Nehemiah 4:14
“And I looked, and arose and said to the nobles, to the leaders, and to the rest of the people, ‘Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, great and awesome, and fight for your brethren, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your houses.'”
Strength for protection. Nehemiah’s encouragement to the people to be strong and fight for their families reflects the importance of strength in protecting what is valuable. This verse can inspire believers to maintain physical and spiritual strength to care for and protect their loved ones.
28. Psalm 19:14
“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer.”
Mind and body in alignment. This verse encourages believers to ensure that their thoughts, words, and actions are pleasing to God. It serves as a reminder that our approach to physical health and fitness should also honor God, aligning our bodies and minds with His will.
29. Psalm 28:7
“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in Him, and I am helped; therefore my heart greatly rejoices, and with my song I will praise Him.”
Joy in God’s strength. This verse expresses gratitude for God’s strength and protection. It encourages believers to find joy in the strength that God provides, celebrating His role as both protector and source of power in their lives.
30. Matthew 19:26
“But Jesus looked at them and said to them, ‘With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.'”
The possibility through God. Jesus’ words remind us that while some things may seem impossible in human strength, all things are possible with God. This verse encourages believers to rely on God’s strength in their physical endeavors, knowing that He can help them achieve what seems unattainable.
These verses collectively highlight the importance of physical health and fitness while emphasizing the need to balance it with spiritual growth and reliance on God’s strength. By approaching physical exercise as a way to honor God and care for the bodies He has given us, we can maintain both physical and spiritual well-being, ultimately glorifying Him in all aspects of our lives.