Fit for the Kingdom

I went to the beach today to have some quiet time and the sun was out, the water was sparkling, and there were tons of people passing me on the bike path. I see all of these people in their expensive workout clothes with their ipod and perfectly shaped bodies. Our generation is so into being fit. I will admit that I have fallen into the same trap. But what happened to getting fit for God's kingdom?

We exercise to the point of obsession to impress the world and to let out our stress and to become disciplined people. We try to match the world's image of beauty and perfection.

It takes practice, dedication, and sacrifice when trying to become "fit" or "healthy". It's hard work! And so many of us try to attain this lifestyle. I have definitely tried.

But when is it that we take this same time and energy to get fit for God's kingdom? Do we practice as much, dedicate as much, sacrifice as much for Him? I don't. I should...but I don't.

Exercise and being healthy is not wrong. It's not sinful. But if we aren't becoming fit for God's kingdom then we are becoming fit for nothing. Our youth, our vitality, and anything of this world will pass away. God is the only thing that will not pass away. So I sure need to hold on tight. I need to be getting fit for HIS kingdom instead of getting fit my swimsuit.

Why do we desire to become physically fit? For our health, to live longer, to take care of ourselves, or maybe to look like a celebrity on a magazine. We try so many different classes, or workout plans, or exercise clothes, or diet plans just to look good. Women try so many of these things time after time, but we are never fulfilled. Physical fitness cannot complete us fully. There is only one who can fill us completely. Our Father.

And I pray he will change my heart to seek Him alone, instead of seeking other means of fulfillment first. I raise this issue because this is where I fall short. I am not practicing to become fit for God's kingdom in the same way that I would practice to become physically fit. I've already tried all the classes, all the "healthy living", all the rules. I've obsessed over physical fitness and I have come up more empty than ever. And trust me, I know how much dedication and practice it takes to become "fit". So if only I could apply this dedication and practice to the kingdom of God. I'm not saying it will be easy, but neither is physical fitness. And fitness for the kingdom of God has a lot more benefits than having a nice body.

Revelations 21:4 says, "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."

When has physical fitness ever promised to do these things? Or when has physical fitness ever fulfilled any of these promises? It has definitely never been faithful to me. But our Father, who is Love, has promised eternal life. And His promises, unlike the world's promises, do not fade away.