History is filled with stories of men and women who have accomplished great things late in life. Ronald Reagan didn't enter politics until age 55. Colonel Sanders took his first Social Security check of $99 and began his Kentucky Fried Chicken chain at the age of 65. Noah Webster completed the English Dictionary at age 66. Benjamin Franklin signed the Declaration of Independence at age 70. Peter Roget invented the Thesaurus at age 73. Grandma Moses started painting after arthritis in her hands made it impossible to crochet at age 76. Three years later her work was hanging in the Museum of Modern Art in New York City,
The Bible tells us that God called Moses to led the Israelite people out of Egyptian bondage at age 80. And Noah built the Ark at age 600.
Staying fit physically means exercising, eating right, staying away from harmful drugs, habits, and not taking part in unnecessary risks, just for the thrill of it.
In addition to physical fitness, we also need to stay morally fit. We read almost daily about individuals losing their jobs, their careers, their social standing, and sometimes freedom (imprisonment), because of bad decisions that led to bad actions, or inappropriate words.
The Bible stresses the importance of staying fit in 1 Timothy 4:7-8 ESV, "Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; 8 for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come."
The Greek word that is translated "of some value" in verse 8 can be translated "for a short time." Physical exercise can help us to stay healthy in this life, but we must remeber that if we live to be 90 years of age, it is short compared to eternity. We need to be fit both physically and morally. We need to make the most of this life and get prepared for the next life. Exercise helps with this life, but godly living helps with being fit for the next life.
