Note 6 at 1 Tim. 4:8: The Bible compares godliness to physical exercise on more than one occasion. In Acts 24:16, Paul spoke of exercising his conscience. The writer of Hebrews says in chapter five, verse 14, "But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil." There are many similarities between physical and spiritual exercise.

Muscles cannot be built instantly; there has to be training over a period of time. Likewise, godliness doesn't come instantly. Many people wait until they are already in trouble to try and flex their spiritual muscles. That's like a couch potato who waits until the day of the race to train for a marathon. That won't work.

Consistency is one of the most important factors in physical conditioning. You can't put one week's worth of training into one day. There has to be exertion at least four days per week to increase conditioning and three days a week to maintain. Likewise, you can't serve God in spurts and succeed. There needs to be consistent spiritual exercise. One day a week won't cut it.

Note 7 at 1 Tim. 4:8: Paul was not saying that bodily exercise isn't important. This was a comparative statement to show that spiritual exercise is much more important. Physical exercise is only beneficial in this life, but spiritual exercise will help us in the world to come, as well as in this life.

Note 8 at 1 Tim. 4:8: Godliness benefits our bodies. Paul is saying that physical exercise only helps us in the physical realm, but godliness helps us in the physical and spiritual realm. Therefore, godliness has physical benefits also.

Most people have not really considered the physical benefits of a godly life. However, there are a number of clinical studies that have shown that godliness positively affects our health. Prayer for instance, has been proven by researchers to speed recovery. "A merry heart doeth good like a medicine. . ." (Prov. 17:22). Therefore, godliness benefits us in more ways than just spiritually.

The Simple English Bible translates these verses in the following way, "Physical training has some importance, but being godly is much more important for everything else. It promises life for now and in the future. This statement is something you can trust" (vs.8-9).