5 Ways to Grow Spiritually (and reap physical benefits)

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20

When it comes to spiritual growth, the number one thing we need to understand is that it is an ongoing process. Similar to our physical health and growth, our spirits need proper exercise, nutrition, exercises, and even rest. Spiritual growth is a lot like fitness.

In our pursuit of personal development and overall well-being, both physical fitness and spiritual growth are essential. They seem like completely opposite realms in our lives, but they share noteworthy similarities which we can compare and apply for results. Just as physical fitness requires consistency and discipline, spiritual growth also requires commitment, self-control, and intentional focus.

1 Timothy 4:8 says, For while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. So, as we make an effort to stay physically healthy and fit, it’s in our best interest to emphasize value on our spiritual health as well.

In the following paragraphs, we will explore five compelling reasons and keys on how to grow spiritually. These are similar to fitness and essentially help us grow in both ways. So, if you’re looking for a framework on how to become physically fit, these will benefit you as well. The parallels between the two growth areas include how they each require time, patience, effort, rest, and consistency. By making these parallels, we will better understand the importance of treating our spiritual health similarly, if not more intentionally, to our physical health.

Spiritual Growth Requires Time

The first parallel is that both physical and spiritual growth require time.

Time for the gym, time with the right people, time to prepare nutritious food, etc. The same goes for spiritual results. When you dedicate time to the gym or exercise, prioritize spending quality time with the right individuals who have similar goals and passions, and take the steps to meal plan and resist junk foods, you will see positive outcomes.

Likewise, when you invest your time in immersing yourself in the Word, communing with God, surrounding yourself with righteous and godly people, and nourishing your being with the right spiritual sustenance, you will reap the fruits of your efforts and see exponential growth.

We will not realize it right away, but over time, we will see noticeable change. Other people will see it, too! Both take time because we’re growing beings.

Spiritual Growth Requires Patience

The second comparison is they both require patience.

Patience with yourself, your body, mind, emotions, and even others is essential for growth because the timeline is out of our control. In fitness, you must be patient with your body, with what you can healthily endure and manage, and patiently pull yourself through ruts and the don’t want-to’s. It is important to understand that progress takes time, as we mentioned in the previous point, and having patience allows you to stay focused and committed to your goals.

This means being patient with the ups and downs, the moments of doubt and frustration, and trusting the process. Whether you’re in the gym or spending quiet time with the Lord, it takes patience to grow.

By cultivating patience, you give yourself the opportunity to learn and grow from every experience, knowing that true growth takes time and effort.

Spiritual Growth Requires Effort

The third comparison is that it takes EFFORT to grow spiritually and physically.

It takes work to go to the gym, eat well, and take care of your body. Similarly, it requires effort to make time for your Bible reading, prayer time, going to church, or connecting with other believers. Consistent effort is needed to maintain a healthy diet for your physical well-being and to learn important principles and lessons for your soul.

It’s important to continually invest in both your physical and spiritual well-being. Setting aside time and energy to nourish and strengthen both your body and spirit is essential for ultimate growth. And this effort is worth it!

Spiritual Growth Requires Rest

The fourth parallel is that it takes REST to let the growth happen.

With fitness, rest days are essential to let your body heal the soreness and get stronger. It is important to remember that rest is crucial for physical fitness, as it allows your muscles to recover and rebuild. All the muscles that were torn in your exercise need time to mend and bind.

Similarly, in spiritual growth, it is necessary to take time to rest in God, to implement sabbath days. This means trusting in His guidance, letting go of our own efforts, and taking the time to meditate on His goodness and love, regardless of the circumstances that we may be facing.

By incorporating these restful practices, we can nurture both our physical and spiritual well-being.

Spiritual Growth Requires Consistency

Finally, the fifth parallel is that they both require CONSISTENCY.

Consistency is a muscle. When you invest in your physical health consistently, you will reap the results in due time. Consistent time, patience, effort, and rest will take you far! The same for spiritual growth.

Consistency in your relationship with God is similar to our relationships with people. Not only do we have to stay consistent and true to our words, but we also have to spend consistent time to grow in relationship. If you want to grow exponentially, spend consistent time with God.

There will be challenges and obstacles to overcome, but it is through these trials that we grow and become stronger. The power of consistency lies in its ability to create positive habits and foster long-lasting change. By consistently putting in the effort, time, and patience, we can achieve the results we desire.

Remember, consistency is not about perfection, but about progress. It is about showing up every day, no matter how small the steps may be. So, keep pushing forward, stay committed, and soon you will see the fruits of your hard work and dedication.

Conclusion

1 Corinthians 9:24-27 says, Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.

Spiritual growth and physical fitness share numerous similarities which we can apply in our lives, even today. Both aspects contribute to our overall well-being and can positively impact and transform every area of our lives. When we embark on a journey of spiritual growth, we delve into the depths of our relationship with God, understand ourselves better, and learn how to love others the way Jesus did. Similarly, physical fitness and health helps us grow stronger, builds endurance, and long-term benefits that will impact the rest of our lives.

We can say the same things when it comes to physical fitness and spiritual growth. Both are important, but one is valuable in this lifetime, and the other in our life to come.

Comment another idea that correlates with spiritual growth or fitness ✨