Spiritual Fitness Assessment
Based upon current research and my understanding of Biblical truths, I have developed a Spiritual Fitness Assessment, a 40-item questionnaire, that assesses 18 spiritual beliefs, attitudes and practices(Spiritual Exercises) that impact on one’s emotional and physical health.
Fitness and health professionals might use this fitness assessment with their clients to educate and inspire them to integrate their faith into their ‘exercise’ routines. Feel free to contact me to learn more about this process.
18 Spiritual Exercises
1st Timothy 4:7-9, found in the First Edition of the New Living Translation, says “Spend your time and energy in training yourself for spiritual fitness. Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise is much more important for it promises a reward in both this life and the next. This is true and everyone should accept it.”
Below is a listing of Spiritual Exercises that one might consider practicing regularly to grow in their faith. In turn, these spiritual exercises may impact favorably on one’s emotional and physical health. I am not aware of research that has been conducted which demonstrates that if a person practices any or all of these exercises they will experience improved health, however, these practices are based on Biblical truths. They are included in God’s guidebook that He has given us to live by. The research does clearly show, however, that there is a strong relationship between many of these attitudes, beliefs and practices and health and well being. And here’s a short article - An Introduction to Spiritual Exercises.
Spiritual Exercises Related to Your Beliefs and Attitude
- Believe in God
- Believe God Forgives You
- Believe God’s Spirit Lives in You
Spiritual Exercises Related to Your Relationship with God
- Read and Study the Bible
- Believe In & Receive God’s Love
- Love God
- Pray and Meditate
- Obey God
- Cry Out to God
- Surrender to God/Let Go
- Abide in God’s Presence
- Have Faith & Trust in God
Spiritual Exercises Related to How You Practice Your Faith
- Confess Your Sins
- Forgive
- Attend Church/Worship with Others
- Be in Community with Others
- Love & Serve Others
- Think Spiritual Thoughts/Renew Your Mind
I have written a corresponding booklet that addresses these spiritual exercises and their biblical basis titled “Spiritual Exercises for a Healthier Life.”
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“…Spend your time and energy in training yourself for spiritual fitness. Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise is much more important for it promises a reward in both this life and the next. This is true and everyone should accept it.” 1 Timothy 4:7-9 (NLT - First Edition)
