I have to admit, I like to exercise. Well, I guess “like” isn't the right word. Let’s just say that I find it beneficial to exercise, and my body appreciates it when I do. It helps me moderate my weight, protects me from certain diseases and illnesses, helps my heart stay strong and it keeps me young and fit. But even though exercise can do all of those things and more, it pales in comparison to seeking godliness which is what Paul reminds Timothy in First Timothy chapter 4 verse 8 which says:
"For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come."
We as believers are called to have an eternal focus. Being fit is only beneficial in this life and only beneficial in certain circumstances. But pursuing and having the attributes of godliness has value for all things. Every aspect of your life from when you wake up to when you go to sleep can benefit from a godly nature. And Paul reminds us that godliness even carries over to the afterlife. In the verse prior to this one, Paul encourages Timothy to train himself to be godly. And I think that is a directive for all of us to pursue.
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Paul tells Timothy that the attribute of godliness has value for all things. And in the verse prior he tells Timothy to train himself to be godly. The dictionary describes the act of godliness as “conforming to the laws and wishes of God”. And in second Peter 1:5 we find the attribute of godliness in middle of the spiritual growth path from starting out in having faith to progressing to the ultimate goal of having love. Every believer who pursues Christ is by default pursuing godliness, because to pursue Christ is to be like Christ and to be like Christ is to “conform to the laws and wishes of God”.