The word “godliness” is found 15 times in the Bible, over half in 1 Timothy, and 15 times the word “godly” is found, and 11 times the word “exercise” is found. 1 Timothy 4:7-8 says, “But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness. 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.”
Bodily exercise profits a “little” (from the Greek word “oligos,” which means puny, a brief amount of time, somewhat. It does profit some or there would not be so many exercise, sports, and gym enthusiasts. But no matter how good of physical shape you are in, you will ultimately die. You may be able to extend your life by healthy habits, healthy exercise, but not forever. Godliness profits a lot, in “all things,” and for all time. That means it should even have a higher priority for us to build up our eternally lasting godly character. Disciplining our self to be more conformed to God’s perfect image. So, what do you think it means to be a godly person?
Godliness is from the Greek word “eusebeia,” which means piety (reverence or showing God deep respect), the gospel plan, godliness, holiness (dedicated or consecrated to God, devoted to serving God, morally and spiritually excellent). You cannot be godly unless you have faith in God, and then live out your faith. Godliness profits now (with Christ’s promise of “abundant” life, cf. John 10:10) and for all eternity (with God’s promise of “eternal life,” cf. John 3:16).
The apostle Paul says this about his exercise focus in Acts 24:16, “And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.” So, he wanted to make sure his character, his life, and his testimony was not hypocritical; that it was not offending God, and then did not do something that hurt anyone else. That is a pretty good godly goal and exercise plan.
Fading fads, fables, or fat reduction focus is not nearly as profitable as godly character development or eternal exercise. Godly exercise is eternal and profitable in everything. Your character counts. What will your exercise focus be and what will you do that will last forever?