What does the Bible mean when it says "bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable unto all things?" Should we not exercise our bodies?


Let's examine that specific text:

For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.

This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation. For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe.
(1 Tim. 4:8-10 KJV)

The first part states that exercising the body is of some value (New International Version: "For physical training is of some value").

It's good and beneficial for our bodies. The latter half of the verse states that godliness is spiritually and naturally beneficial because it benefits our lives now and for eternity. This verse isn't telling us not to exercise or enjoy physical activity, but it's simply reminding us that our priority needs to be godliness, then physical exercise.

The Greek word translated as godliness is "eusebeia." Bullinger's Greek Dictionary states, "This word is referring to the opposite of religion. It relates to real, true, vital and spiritual relation with God."

We have a relationship with God through our worship, prayer life, and study of the Word of God. As we seek a relationship with the living God, that relationship will benefit our bodies, minds, and spirits.

Putting as much time into our relationship with God, as we do into the fun things of life, will benefit us more than anything else we do.

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