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Every Body Matters
Few pastors or Christian writers have dared to approach the subject of how proper eating and an active lifestyle can affect how we serve God. Author Gary Thomas does just that. And he reaches all the way back to the apostle Paul, who wrote that we need to prime our bodies to become, 'an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.' To illustrate the body/soul correlation, Thomas presents engaging and diverse stories that include a young mom who got fit through volleyball and reaped spiritual rewards in her marriage, a 300-pound pastor who realized his obesity was eroding his ministry impact, and a woman who gained the spiritual strength to survive a contentious divorce by training for a marathon. In every instance, Thomas makes a direct connection between the physical challenge and its spiritual consequence.This book is a must read for anyone seeking new and compelling motivation for strengthening their bodies and fortifying their souls.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 8, 2011
165 people are currently reading
1036 people want to read
About the author
Gary L. Thomas
62 books645 followersGary Thomas is a bestselling author and international speaker whose ministry brings people closer to Christ and closer to others. He unites the study of Scripture, church history, and the Christian classics to foster spiritual growth and deeper relationships within the Christian community.
Gary is the author of 20 books, including "Sacred Marriage" and "Cherish", that together have sold over two million copies, have been translated into more than a dozen languages, and won numerous awards . His writings have established him as a thought-leader in the areas of marriage, parenting, and spiritual formation.
Gary holds a B.A. in English Literature from Western Washington University, an MA degree in systematic theology from Regent College (Vancouver, BC), and an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Western Seminary (Portland, OR).
He serves on the teaching team (and as Writer in Residence) at Second Baptist Church, Houston—a congregation with six campuses and 70,000 members—and is an adjunct faculty member at Western Seminary in Portland, Oregon and Houston Theological Seminary in Houston Texas.
Gary’s speaking ministry has led him to speak in 49 states and nine different countries, and on numerous national television and radio programs, including multiple appearances on Focus on the Family and Family Life Today. Gary’s interviews on Focus on the Family have been chosen among the “Best of 2013,” “Best of 2014” and “Best of 2017.” Gary is a lifelong advocate of using the Christian classics to bring people closer to Christ.
Gary enjoys running in his spare time and has completed 14 marathons, including the Boston Marathon three times. He and his wife Lisa have been married for 35 years and they have three adult children and the smartest, cutest, most adorable granddaughter on the planet.
Gary Thomas – Bringing people closer to Christ and closer to others.
Gary is the author of 20 books, including "Sacred Marriage" and "Cherish", that together have sold over two million copies, have been translated into more than a dozen languages, and won numerous awards . His writings have established him as a thought-leader in the areas of marriage, parenting, and spiritual formation.
Gary holds a B.A. in English Literature from Western Washington University, an MA degree in systematic theology from Regent College (Vancouver, BC), and an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Western Seminary (Portland, OR).
He serves on the teaching team (and as Writer in Residence) at Second Baptist Church, Houston—a congregation with six campuses and 70,000 members—and is an adjunct faculty member at Western Seminary in Portland, Oregon and Houston Theological Seminary in Houston Texas.
Gary’s speaking ministry has led him to speak in 49 states and nine different countries, and on numerous national television and radio programs, including multiple appearances on Focus on the Family and Family Life Today. Gary’s interviews on Focus on the Family have been chosen among the “Best of 2013,” “Best of 2014” and “Best of 2017.” Gary is a lifelong advocate of using the Christian classics to bring people closer to Christ.
Gary enjoys running in his spare time and has completed 14 marathons, including the Boston Marathon three times. He and his wife Lisa have been married for 35 years and they have three adult children and the smartest, cutest, most adorable granddaughter on the planet.
Gary Thomas – Bringing people closer to Christ and closer to others.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
June 13, 2020
3-3.5 stars
December 16, 2014
Learned about this book yesterday. The one recommending it was so genuinely enthusiastic that I grabbed it on Audible in the moment. Then, last night and early this morning, I listened to it at 3x speed because I wanted to get a quick grasp of the content. By tonight, I'd ordered 6 copies on Amazon for other ministry friends I think would benefit from Thomas' clarity. Will probably relisten--more slowly this time--starting tomorrow.
This is the first book on physical wellness/ministry that seemed more healthy than hokey. A very timely and responsible treatise for the modern evangelical church on a subject that has been neglected too long for fear of offending some [of us] who aren't in great shape and who hide behind the excuses of business and "demanding ministry" rather than cultivate more healthy [and ministry-extending] disciplines.
Similar in some ways to to Richard Swenson's book on restoring margin to our lives, Thomas encourages the reader to zoom out, take a long view and prioritize good steward of his/her body on order to provide sustainable leadership/ministry into the future. Too many of us, he says, are being short-sighted, living for near-term impact.
Good theology, responsible use of scripture, practical enough to be motivating.
This is the first book on physical wellness/ministry that seemed more healthy than hokey. A very timely and responsible treatise for the modern evangelical church on a subject that has been neglected too long for fear of offending some [of us] who aren't in great shape and who hide behind the excuses of business and "demanding ministry" rather than cultivate more healthy [and ministry-extending] disciplines.
Similar in some ways to to Richard Swenson's book on restoring margin to our lives, Thomas encourages the reader to zoom out, take a long view and prioritize good steward of his/her body on order to provide sustainable leadership/ministry into the future. Too many of us, he says, are being short-sighted, living for near-term impact.
Good theology, responsible use of scripture, practical enough to be motivating.
December 9, 2022
In the quest to become more physically fit, I decided to read this book to make sure I'm doing it for the right reasons. This was a fantastic read. Thomas argues that we are called to serve God with "heart, soul, mind and STRENGTH" and that not taking care of the one body God gives us is poor stewardship, taking years off our ministry or limiting our ability to do all that God has called us to do because we are too weak, tired, unmotivated or depressed.
This was an exceptionally quotable book. There were a few examples of people he used that I didn't totally love, but there was alot of reference to the Puritans which was super cool.
Here are some of my favorite quotes:
"God's desire for us to be delivered from SLAVERY OF ANY KIND is an expression of His love, not an attitude of divine dissapointment." (this refers to how often we can't control ourselves with what we eat. Self control is so important in all aspects of life, but if we are missing it in our diets it can impact the rest of our spiritual walk)
"Food is fuel. It is not where we should turn when assaulted by stress, loneliness, anxiety, boredom or uncertainty....Many calories are consumed in response to needs and appetites that have little or nothing to do with physical hunger but rather are consumed in response to appetites that these calories will never touch." (IE STRESS EATING!)
"But the most dangerous thing is that the soul, by the neglect of little things, becomes accustomed to unfaithfulness." - Francois Fenelon
"Strict exercise of self-control is an essential feature of the Christian's life....if we give free rein to the desires of the flesh....we shall find it hard to train for the service of Christ." -Dietrich Bonhoeffer
"Laziness is more than a sin- it's an attitude that undercuts our sense of duty to God and our obligation to our neighbor, and an attitude that wastes our lives."
"Sloth is an damning as open rebellion."
"Those who avoid suffereing by sinning, sn themselves into worse suffering." -Ralph Venning
"Much of our reluctance to call others out of their sin may be based on pride rather than love. We are sinfully people centered rather than God centered when we want people to feel accepted by us more than we want them to live in right standing before God......We are called to love everyone, but love doesn't mean making others feel comfortable, secure, and accepted by God i the midst of their rebellion."
And finally, this paragraph was so so beautiful I need to include the whole thing.
"Do not quarrel therefore with your lot in life. Do not complain of its never ceasing cares, its petty environment, the vexations you have to stand, the small and sordid souls you have to live and work with. Above all, do not resent temptation; do not be perplexed because it seems to thicken round you more and more, and ceases neither for effort nor for agony nor prayer. That is the practice, which God appoints you; and it is having its work in making you patient, and humble, and generous, and unselfish, and kind, and courteous. Do not grudge the hand that is moulding the still too shapeless image within you. It is growing more beautiful though you see it not, and every touch of temptation may add to its perfection." -Henry Drummond
Thomas follows with this; "When I', not spirituall lazy, instead of resenting petty (or even not so petty) annoyances, I can consciously use them to "practice" godliness and cultivate and Christlike Spirit".
"Trying aspects of life will happen whether we use them or not. Spiritual laziness leads to resentment; spiritual diligence spawns insight and transformation fromt the EXACT SAME EVENTS. Let us become intentional to use personal slights, inconveniences, acts of gossip or slander, times of difficulty, or even sickness as opportunities to grow in patience and understanding and humility instead of bitterly resenting each one."
This was an exceptionally quotable book. There were a few examples of people he used that I didn't totally love, but there was alot of reference to the Puritans which was super cool.
Here are some of my favorite quotes:
"God's desire for us to be delivered from SLAVERY OF ANY KIND is an expression of His love, not an attitude of divine dissapointment." (this refers to how often we can't control ourselves with what we eat. Self control is so important in all aspects of life, but if we are missing it in our diets it can impact the rest of our spiritual walk)
"Food is fuel. It is not where we should turn when assaulted by stress, loneliness, anxiety, boredom or uncertainty....Many calories are consumed in response to needs and appetites that have little or nothing to do with physical hunger but rather are consumed in response to appetites that these calories will never touch." (IE STRESS EATING!)
"But the most dangerous thing is that the soul, by the neglect of little things, becomes accustomed to unfaithfulness." - Francois Fenelon
"Strict exercise of self-control is an essential feature of the Christian's life....if we give free rein to the desires of the flesh....we shall find it hard to train for the service of Christ." -Dietrich Bonhoeffer
"Laziness is more than a sin- it's an attitude that undercuts our sense of duty to God and our obligation to our neighbor, and an attitude that wastes our lives."
"Sloth is an damning as open rebellion."
"Those who avoid suffereing by sinning, sn themselves into worse suffering." -Ralph Venning
"Much of our reluctance to call others out of their sin may be based on pride rather than love. We are sinfully people centered rather than God centered when we want people to feel accepted by us more than we want them to live in right standing before God......We are called to love everyone, but love doesn't mean making others feel comfortable, secure, and accepted by God i the midst of their rebellion."
And finally, this paragraph was so so beautiful I need to include the whole thing.
"Do not quarrel therefore with your lot in life. Do not complain of its never ceasing cares, its petty environment, the vexations you have to stand, the small and sordid souls you have to live and work with. Above all, do not resent temptation; do not be perplexed because it seems to thicken round you more and more, and ceases neither for effort nor for agony nor prayer. That is the practice, which God appoints you; and it is having its work in making you patient, and humble, and generous, and unselfish, and kind, and courteous. Do not grudge the hand that is moulding the still too shapeless image within you. It is growing more beautiful though you see it not, and every touch of temptation may add to its perfection." -Henry Drummond
Thomas follows with this; "When I', not spirituall lazy, instead of resenting petty (or even not so petty) annoyances, I can consciously use them to "practice" godliness and cultivate and Christlike Spirit".
"Trying aspects of life will happen whether we use them or not. Spiritual laziness leads to resentment; spiritual diligence spawns insight and transformation fromt the EXACT SAME EVENTS. Let us become intentional to use personal slights, inconveniences, acts of gossip or slander, times of difficulty, or even sickness as opportunities to grow in patience and understanding and humility instead of bitterly resenting each one."
April 15, 2021
Ya'll I can't. I can't even with this book.
To be fair, I only made it 1/4 through the book, so take my review with a grain of salt.
From the beginning of the book, there is talk of "fighting your demons," accompanied with words like conquering/failure and scriptures about "striking a blow to my body to make it my slave."
Chapter 2 tells the story of a woman who adopted a baby from Ethiopia. While she was caring for the newborn, she (understandably) dropped her morning quiet time with God and even gained some pounds. Actual quote from from the book: "Karen's spiritual diet wasn't much healthier: 'You could describe it the way they describe an eating disorder: as Binge and Purge. One week I'd be in the word and pray alot, determined to get on track with God and put him first. I got up at 5:30am even if I'd been up several times during the night taking care of fussy babies. But then, inevitably, somebody got the flu, chaos would ensue and the quiet times stopped for a week.'" You guys, she had just adopted a child who had no family. And she felt she wasn't doing enough spiritually and physically. Maybe that's because her energy was already going toward the deeply spiritual, physical and energy-draining act of having a very small new person in the home.
More from chapter 2: "In the Republic, Plato recounts a scene in which Socrates tutors his student, Glaucon: 'Have you noticed how a life-long devotion to exercise to the exclusion of anything else produces a certain type of mind? Just as the neglect of it produces another type. One type tends to be tough and uncivilized. The other, soft and over-sensitive.' He recognized that all exercise and no study creates only half a man, just as all study and no exercise also creates half a man, in this case an effeminate, soft, overly sensitive man who isn't tough enough to address real life."
And that, folks, is where I take my leave and will move on to a new book.
I recognize this book seems to have helped a lot of people, and that's cool. Maybe it's just where I'm at in my headspace. I believe in exercise. I agree it's helpful toward your spirituality, even. But I can't come at it from this direction.
Peace out.
To be fair, I only made it 1/4 through the book, so take my review with a grain of salt.
From the beginning of the book, there is talk of "fighting your demons," accompanied with words like conquering/failure and scriptures about "striking a blow to my body to make it my slave."
Chapter 2 tells the story of a woman who adopted a baby from Ethiopia. While she was caring for the newborn, she (understandably) dropped her morning quiet time with God and even gained some pounds. Actual quote from from the book: "Karen's spiritual diet wasn't much healthier: 'You could describe it the way they describe an eating disorder: as Binge and Purge. One week I'd be in the word and pray alot, determined to get on track with God and put him first. I got up at 5:30am even if I'd been up several times during the night taking care of fussy babies. But then, inevitably, somebody got the flu, chaos would ensue and the quiet times stopped for a week.'" You guys, she had just adopted a child who had no family. And she felt she wasn't doing enough spiritually and physically. Maybe that's because her energy was already going toward the deeply spiritual, physical and energy-draining act of having a very small new person in the home.
More from chapter 2: "In the Republic, Plato recounts a scene in which Socrates tutors his student, Glaucon: 'Have you noticed how a life-long devotion to exercise to the exclusion of anything else produces a certain type of mind? Just as the neglect of it produces another type. One type tends to be tough and uncivilized. The other, soft and over-sensitive.' He recognized that all exercise and no study creates only half a man, just as all study and no exercise also creates half a man, in this case an effeminate, soft, overly sensitive man who isn't tough enough to address real life."
And that, folks, is where I take my leave and will move on to a new book.
I recognize this book seems to have helped a lot of people, and that's cool. Maybe it's just where I'm at in my headspace. I believe in exercise. I agree it's helpful toward your spirituality, even. But I can't come at it from this direction.
Peace out.
March 1, 2012
Over the last couple of weeks I've been reading a new book called Every Body Matters: Strengthening Your Body to Strengthen Your Soul. The premise of the book is that a lack of discipline when it comes to our physical health is often a reflection of our spiritual health. Author Gary Thomas is very careful to make clear that he is not implying that all sickness and disease is a result of a lack of spiritual health. He is definitely NOT touting "health and wealth" prosperity theology. Instead, he sees the body as an instrument to be used for God's glory, rather than as an ornament or means to self-gratification and absorption.
"The reason I want to get into shape then, the reason I long for God's church to get in shape, is not to impress anyone, not to make others feel inferior, not to demonstrate our own personal discipline and self-control. God forbid! On the contrary, it is to become, as Paul writes, 'instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.'
Read those words again, slowly, because this teaching about the connection between physical and spiritual fitness requires that our motivation be as pure as we can make it in this fallen world...Desiring a silver soul means that we stop treating our bodies like ornaments - with all the misguided motivations often displayed by those who build their bodies out of pride and ambition - and start treating our bodies like instruments, vessels set apart to serve the God who fashioned them. Whether we have strong or weak bodies, healthy or sick, overnourished or undernourished, how do we begin moving from where we are now to more purposefully building bodies that function like instruments?" (p.15)
Pursuing God isn't just a "from the chin up" endeavor, as one historian put it, involving only the soul and/or mind. Our mind and spirit, soul and body, are all working together. Our attitude toward our physical health reflects our attitude toward our Creator. Thomas even goes so far as to say that it can be a sin to neglect our physical health. We hear often about sins like adultery, lust, lying, and stealing - and rightly so - but what ever happened to gluttony and sloth?
Read the rest of my review here: http://homewithpurpose.blogspot.com/2...
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution
"The reason I want to get into shape then, the reason I long for God's church to get in shape, is not to impress anyone, not to make others feel inferior, not to demonstrate our own personal discipline and self-control. God forbid! On the contrary, it is to become, as Paul writes, 'instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.'
Read those words again, slowly, because this teaching about the connection between physical and spiritual fitness requires that our motivation be as pure as we can make it in this fallen world...Desiring a silver soul means that we stop treating our bodies like ornaments - with all the misguided motivations often displayed by those who build their bodies out of pride and ambition - and start treating our bodies like instruments, vessels set apart to serve the God who fashioned them. Whether we have strong or weak bodies, healthy or sick, overnourished or undernourished, how do we begin moving from where we are now to more purposefully building bodies that function like instruments?" (p.15)
Pursuing God isn't just a "from the chin up" endeavor, as one historian put it, involving only the soul and/or mind. Our mind and spirit, soul and body, are all working together. Our attitude toward our physical health reflects our attitude toward our Creator. Thomas even goes so far as to say that it can be a sin to neglect our physical health. We hear often about sins like adultery, lust, lying, and stealing - and rightly so - but what ever happened to gluttony and sloth?
Read the rest of my review here: http://homewithpurpose.blogspot.com/2...
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution
May 4, 2012
This book completely blew me away. It was an amazing read. I think it should be in every church library and on every pastor's desk. It is a wakeup call to all Christians that we are body, mind and spirit and that in order to love and serve God to the best of our abilities we need to be nurturing and looking after all three areas of our life. Back when I was a student involved with Campus Ministries, I heard a talk that stated the human body is a like a car with three gas tanks - one physical, one spiritual and one intellectual and if any of the three run out of gas then the engine will have problems and not run well. This book brings to light the fact that Christianity often focuses only on the two and it is something that is costing us - it costs us in our witness, in our effectiveness and in our possible length of service to Jesus Christ.
This book is a series of examples from Gary's life and from a number of case studies. Another great strength of the book is the variety of examples and sources Gary uses to make his point. However this book is not a diet book, it is not a fitness guide, it is not a 'How to' this book is the theological argument for why we should look after and even work at improving or strengthening the body that God has given us.
...
Read the rest of the review and with link to a Gary Thomas Interview on my blog Book Reviews and More.
This book is a series of examples from Gary's life and from a number of case studies. Another great strength of the book is the variety of examples and sources Gary uses to make his point. However this book is not a diet book, it is not a fitness guide, it is not a 'How to' this book is the theological argument for why we should look after and even work at improving or strengthening the body that God has given us.
...
Read the rest of the review and with link to a Gary Thomas Interview on my blog Book Reviews and More.
January 8, 2024
I didn't intend to read this book as one of my first for the New Year, but it just worked out that way. I do care about my body because I want to honor the Lord with it, but Thomas helped me to see that sometimes my focus is probably more self-pleasing than God-honoring. I appreciate the Lord using this book to reveal that and more to me.
The premise of the book was the fact that our bodies and lifestyles should be honoring and pleasing to the Lord. I think we all need that reminder of that much more than what we receive (or seek out).
Here are a few quotes from the book that I liked and made me think.
"We have a total misunderstanding of grace if we think grace makes us less serious about holiness."
"I can't explain why, but I know from experience that when I am being disciplined around food I am more mindful of God."
"...your level of physical activity is the single most important predictor of whether you will look old and decrepit by age 62 or 102. Humans are designed to be physically active the project of staying young is not avoiding disease it's about avoiding frailty. When we talk about becoming useful to God, I love this take, fitness isn't about avoiding disease it's about avoiding frailty."
"After we've sinned, let's remember that there is work to be done, not to earn forgiveness and merit God's renewed favor and acceptance but to fortify our souls against future falls of the same kind. Use the exposure that sin provides to gain a more accurate view of the condition of your soul."
The premise of the book was the fact that our bodies and lifestyles should be honoring and pleasing to the Lord. I think we all need that reminder of that much more than what we receive (or seek out).
Here are a few quotes from the book that I liked and made me think.
"We have a total misunderstanding of grace if we think grace makes us less serious about holiness."
"I can't explain why, but I know from experience that when I am being disciplined around food I am more mindful of God."
"...your level of physical activity is the single most important predictor of whether you will look old and decrepit by age 62 or 102. Humans are designed to be physically active the project of staying young is not avoiding disease it's about avoiding frailty. When we talk about becoming useful to God, I love this take, fitness isn't about avoiding disease it's about avoiding frailty."
"After we've sinned, let's remember that there is work to be done, not to earn forgiveness and merit God's renewed favor and acceptance but to fortify our souls against future falls of the same kind. Use the exposure that sin provides to gain a more accurate view of the condition of your soul."
September 11, 2023
I really enjoy this author and he did an excellent job with a delicate subject! SO needed in our Christian culture and I found myself convicted in many places.
I appreciate his balance in understanding certain health conditions yet practicing Godliness that resists overeating and abusing food.
Taking care of your body can improve your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health.
I’m on my own journey of healing and being as healthy as possible and this book was great motivation and encouragement for me!
📖 “God created our bodies not as ornaments but as instruments.”
📖 “Why should I ask God to lead me in which country to serve when the body I will take there is unhealthy, full of bad habits, and not sustainable for long term ministry.”
📖 “A healthy, fit body is the most appropriate home for a vibrant spirit. -Dr Kenneth Cooper”
I appreciate his balance in understanding certain health conditions yet practicing Godliness that resists overeating and abusing food.
Taking care of your body can improve your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health.
I’m on my own journey of healing and being as healthy as possible and this book was great motivation and encouragement for me!
📖 “God created our bodies not as ornaments but as instruments.”
📖 “Why should I ask God to lead me in which country to serve when the body I will take there is unhealthy, full of bad habits, and not sustainable for long term ministry.”
📖 “A healthy, fit body is the most appropriate home for a vibrant spirit. -Dr Kenneth Cooper”
August 18, 2023
I loved this short book. I think it is an area that is paramount yet overlooked in our culture and even in Christian culture. I am so happy to find a book that affirmed many of my thoughts and views, and makes me feel less alone. It was also a good reminder for me to get back on track to where I was before having my second baby. I really think God’s best applies to all areas of our lives and that includes spiritual, physical, emotional, and intellectual realms. ♥️
February 1, 2024
An excerpt from a review recently posted on Schaeffer's Ghost:
[...] We know from Scripture that Christians’ bodies are ‘the temple of the Holy Spirit.’ We are not our own; we were bought with a price. It follows, therefore, that we are to honor God with our bodies. After all, everything we have—including our bodies—was entrusted to us by God for the purpose of glorifying Him and enjoying Him forever. It is our chief end. But all too often we act like our purpose is to dishonor Him (or glorify ourselves), and enjoy bacon forever. Our gods are our stomachs, and we alternate between expanding them by our indulgences and making an effort to undo those indulgences and shrink them down again. We enjoy our Doritos (or our flat abs) more than we enjoy our sovereign creator who loves us and redeemed us. Like the servant entrusted with one talent, we are crummy stewards, and thereby tell the world that the Master we claim to serve really isn’t worth respecting. [...]Full review available here.
April 6, 2021
First book (and perspective) I’ve ever come across on a Biblical stewardship of the body. Maybe it’s because I’m bombarded by people losing weight left and right on social media (usually I’m seeing this because someone is selling multi-level marketing) but of ALL the reasons I’ve ever heard someone say they wanted to lose weight or be healthy on these sorts of social media posts—-I don’t think I’ve *ever* heard someone say they wanted to do these things to give glory to God. This book explores the reasons behind why one should feel this way and as always, author Gary Thomas provides a balanced, biblical, and nonjudgmental approach. He offers plenty of grace and perspective and this book is applicable to anyone—-thin, overweight, elderly, young, etc.
Also as a quick aside, I really found the passages on “muscular Christianity” which was a movement at one time in history (and is related to the founding of the YMCA) as really interesting! Didn’t expect to have any historical references in this book but there were plenty.
Also as a quick aside, I really found the passages on “muscular Christianity” which was a movement at one time in history (and is related to the founding of the YMCA) as really interesting! Didn’t expect to have any historical references in this book but there were plenty.
March 23, 2021
A short, easy book, which I picked up on a whim (well, and to be thinking about the body in Christian thought for a talk I need to prepare for next month). There was actually a lot to be liked, some good reminders and interesting points. There were also a couple of slightly awkward (very evangelicalish) moments, too, but overall the books is a worthwhile read as a call to thinking about physical fitness (exercise, eating, laziness) in the light of evangelical spirituality.
February 4, 2025
One of the best books I have read in a long time. Convicting, challenging, compassionate, and Biblically sound. Solid.
December 13, 2018
The author connects how we treat and steward our physical bodies with how we are doing spiritually. I was prepared to scoff or be offended, but he presented a lot of Scripture to support his theme and has given me a lot to think about. Because we live in a fallen world, there will be/are many Christians with broken bodies, and he goes to lengths to insure that his readers do not walk away thinking he thinks only fit, active Christians are truly holy. He’s not an idiot. But he does question why folks who identify as evangelical Christians are also some of the most obese people in American culture. Is there a disconnect here? Read for yourself before you roll your eyes and move on.
August 9, 2019
Awesome book that tied together the challenges of body and spiritual growth in a cohesive way. Lots of the stuff in this book I had already kind of worked out on my own, but there were some significant connections he made that were particularly helpful. Good Christian narrative on fitness to counter the many, many other narratives on fitness.
January 25, 2023
Christian perspective on a healthy body. Things I had never considered!
March 3, 2012
“Christian, keep running” is the last line of Gary Thomas’ book Every Body Matters. This simple statement captures the theme perfectly.
Every Body Matters is not a cautionary tale of heart disease or an indictment of our fast-food culture, which promotes both obesity and sloth.
This book is also not a “how to” manual to become what our culture advocates as “beautiful” either. In fact, Thomas spends minimal time discussing thinness, and mostly seems to disregard specific numbers. In fact, he cites research which claims a fit overweight person can conceivably be healthier than an underweight out of shape person.
He also is quick to acknowledge Every Body Matters is not for victims of abuse or other psychological issues far more significant than taking a walk or saying no to the Cheetos.
Instead, Every Body Matters is about self-improvement and dealing with the issue of our physical health as well as our spiritual health, and discovering the relationship between the two.
“Christian, keep running”.
One of the points that Thomas makes, closely related to an idea I’ve been turning over in my own head for a few months, is this: Satan is pretty indifferent in regards to what approach he uses to end our personal ministry. Would he be particularly opposed to the simplicity of using the couch potato state to end or at least thwart God’s purpose for our lives? That reason alone, improving ones physical condition, could be just as vital as intellectual or spiritual growth in regards to bettering ourselves as Christians.
“Christian, keep running.”
Thomas creates an inspirational narrative regarding self-improvement on a myriad of different levels. And true to form, this marathon-running evangelical is not at all preachy. He’s honest, confessing the story of a disappointing event in which book sales didn’t go his way. On the way back to hotel he ran through the local Dairy Queen for a Blizzard and fries (my preference would have been McDonald’s fries, a giant bag of Swedish fish, and cheesecake from somewhere, but to each his own), rationalizing that although he was stress eating he wasn’t “dealing with disappointment by looking at porn.”
That’s life. I have a really weird feeling similar statements have come out of the mouths of many others as well.
“Christian, keep running.”
Gary Thomas, if anything in this book, is realistic. He tackles a touchy topic with compassion and empathy, as Thomas is aware that weight is frequently an outward symbol for whatever battle is fought internally. He’s not a food Nazi and openly admits he has the taste buds of a “seven-year-old boy” (who doesn’t by the way—again, Swedish fish are my crack), and goes as far as to say that “sin can lead us to become overweight, but being overweight is not, in and over itself, a sin”.
The difference between Every Body Matters and the run-of-the-mill I-need-to-get-into-better-shape/ lose-twenty-pounds-by-next-Thursday books which are so commonly found on best seller lists is this: Thomas isn’t about shaping the body to fit some desire of society. His purpose is to shape the soul and allow the body to reflect its condition. We are all works in progress and Thomas is incredibly quick to acknowledge this.
“Christian, keep running.”
Every Body Matters is not a cautionary tale of heart disease or an indictment of our fast-food culture, which promotes both obesity and sloth.
This book is also not a “how to” manual to become what our culture advocates as “beautiful” either. In fact, Thomas spends minimal time discussing thinness, and mostly seems to disregard specific numbers. In fact, he cites research which claims a fit overweight person can conceivably be healthier than an underweight out of shape person.
He also is quick to acknowledge Every Body Matters is not for victims of abuse or other psychological issues far more significant than taking a walk or saying no to the Cheetos.
Instead, Every Body Matters is about self-improvement and dealing with the issue of our physical health as well as our spiritual health, and discovering the relationship between the two.
“Christian, keep running”.
One of the points that Thomas makes, closely related to an idea I’ve been turning over in my own head for a few months, is this: Satan is pretty indifferent in regards to what approach he uses to end our personal ministry. Would he be particularly opposed to the simplicity of using the couch potato state to end or at least thwart God’s purpose for our lives? That reason alone, improving ones physical condition, could be just as vital as intellectual or spiritual growth in regards to bettering ourselves as Christians.
“Christian, keep running.”
Thomas creates an inspirational narrative regarding self-improvement on a myriad of different levels. And true to form, this marathon-running evangelical is not at all preachy. He’s honest, confessing the story of a disappointing event in which book sales didn’t go his way. On the way back to hotel he ran through the local Dairy Queen for a Blizzard and fries (my preference would have been McDonald’s fries, a giant bag of Swedish fish, and cheesecake from somewhere, but to each his own), rationalizing that although he was stress eating he wasn’t “dealing with disappointment by looking at porn.”
That’s life. I have a really weird feeling similar statements have come out of the mouths of many others as well.
“Christian, keep running.”
Gary Thomas, if anything in this book, is realistic. He tackles a touchy topic with compassion and empathy, as Thomas is aware that weight is frequently an outward symbol for whatever battle is fought internally. He’s not a food Nazi and openly admits he has the taste buds of a “seven-year-old boy” (who doesn’t by the way—again, Swedish fish are my crack), and goes as far as to say that “sin can lead us to become overweight, but being overweight is not, in and over itself, a sin”.
The difference between Every Body Matters and the run-of-the-mill I-need-to-get-into-better-shape/ lose-twenty-pounds-by-next-Thursday books which are so commonly found on best seller lists is this: Thomas isn’t about shaping the body to fit some desire of society. His purpose is to shape the soul and allow the body to reflect its condition. We are all works in progress and Thomas is incredibly quick to acknowledge this.
“Christian, keep running.”
September 11, 2016
This is the second book I've read by Gary Thomas, and it does not disappoint. Read the book description and you'll know that Gary is explaining the body/soul connection and how physical fitness helps refine our souls. The tagline sums it up: "Strengthening your body to strengthen your soul." (The first book I read by this author is, Sacred Marriage: What if God Designed Marriage to Make us Holy More Than to Make Us Happy? It is the best book on marriage I've read so far. Additionally, I have another book by Gary Thomas on my reading list - Authentic Faith: The Power of a Fire-Tested Life.)
When I read Gary's books, I feel that I'm getting a fresh biblical perspective that is rich with humility. Want a book that will encourage you but also hold you accountable to a high standard? Read Gary Thomas. Do you want to read fluffy things by an author trying to promise success through inspiring-yet-meaningless sound bites and ego-soothing? Better leave Gary's books alone.
Gary starts by describing what any believer's true motivation to be healthy should be:
"The reason I want to get in shape then, the reason I long for God's church to get in shape, is not to impress anyone, not to make others feel inferior, not to demonstrate our own personal discipline and self-control. God forbid! On the contrary, it is to become, as Paul writes, 'instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.'"
Here are some other gems from the book:
"...not only did God create us; he paid a high price to redeem us. And when he redeemed us, he didn't just redeem our souls; he redeemed our bodies and claims them for his use as well. Therefore honor God with your bodies."
"There is a subtle and dangerous spiritual mechanism that arises when we always obey our hunger. It becomes a veritable steering wheel in Satan's hand. He can turn us in any direction he wants, and we become accustomed to letting this one sensation rule us."
And Gary quotes another author, Kristin Armstrong, when he says:
"'Endurance is built through experience, repeatedly practicing the effort so that you have what it takes to reach completion. Endurance is the confidence that you can withstand pain.'"
(Love that quote!!)
He adds:
"Kristin believes that a Christian who has learned how to endure is a Christian who isn't as vulnerable to everyday challenges."
I highly recommend this book! It is not a weight-loss how-to, but it will give you a right, God-centered view of health & fitness.
When I read Gary's books, I feel that I'm getting a fresh biblical perspective that is rich with humility. Want a book that will encourage you but also hold you accountable to a high standard? Read Gary Thomas. Do you want to read fluffy things by an author trying to promise success through inspiring-yet-meaningless sound bites and ego-soothing? Better leave Gary's books alone.
Gary starts by describing what any believer's true motivation to be healthy should be:
"The reason I want to get in shape then, the reason I long for God's church to get in shape, is not to impress anyone, not to make others feel inferior, not to demonstrate our own personal discipline and self-control. God forbid! On the contrary, it is to become, as Paul writes, 'instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.'"
Here are some other gems from the book:
"...not only did God create us; he paid a high price to redeem us. And when he redeemed us, he didn't just redeem our souls; he redeemed our bodies and claims them for his use as well. Therefore honor God with your bodies."
"There is a subtle and dangerous spiritual mechanism that arises when we always obey our hunger. It becomes a veritable steering wheel in Satan's hand. He can turn us in any direction he wants, and we become accustomed to letting this one sensation rule us."
And Gary quotes another author, Kristin Armstrong, when he says:
"'Endurance is built through experience, repeatedly practicing the effort so that you have what it takes to reach completion. Endurance is the confidence that you can withstand pain.'"
(Love that quote!!)
He adds:
"Kristin believes that a Christian who has learned how to endure is a Christian who isn't as vulnerable to everyday challenges."
I highly recommend this book! It is not a weight-loss how-to, but it will give you a right, God-centered view of health & fitness.
January 29, 2012
Though there are still many overweight people it seems that America has gotten into a workout craze. I've seen more shirts with bicycles on them, and more news features about senior citizen taking up exercising. I personally am a person who has always ate in small portions considering my sensitivity to getting sick. It's very difficult explaining this to people who love to eat out often. I physically just can't.
This book isn't a help guide to figure out what your workout plan should be, but instead it's an argument as to why Christians should value being as physically fit as they can. I believe the author makes good points, and I completely agree that the Bible does strongly push humans to be aware of how they treat their bodies. Thomas is very good about keeping between the line of never saying it's sinful, and not desirable to abuse your body.
The only thing I wish the book had included was more focus on portioning your food. I don't believe you have to cut off sweets, or other things consider unhealthy in large consumption. I believe it's the same with alcohol. You can enjoy things in moderation, but the author never seems to get to this point, which was disappointing. I personally don't exercise, and I don't think there is a strong enough argument for me to incorporate that in my day to day routine. I feel I'm active enough already without adding extra mileage.
If you're looking for motivation to workout, or maybe you're wondering how large of a case there is or Christians to workout then this book provides some insight. It is well-researched, and provides some good versus on the topic. I would warn to read the Bible yourself and be very aware of the context before taking the snippets of versus as fact though.
This book was provided by Zondervan in exchange for a review.
This book isn't a help guide to figure out what your workout plan should be, but instead it's an argument as to why Christians should value being as physically fit as they can. I believe the author makes good points, and I completely agree that the Bible does strongly push humans to be aware of how they treat their bodies. Thomas is very good about keeping between the line of never saying it's sinful, and not desirable to abuse your body.
The only thing I wish the book had included was more focus on portioning your food. I don't believe you have to cut off sweets, or other things consider unhealthy in large consumption. I believe it's the same with alcohol. You can enjoy things in moderation, but the author never seems to get to this point, which was disappointing. I personally don't exercise, and I don't think there is a strong enough argument for me to incorporate that in my day to day routine. I feel I'm active enough already without adding extra mileage.
If you're looking for motivation to workout, or maybe you're wondering how large of a case there is or Christians to workout then this book provides some insight. It is well-researched, and provides some good versus on the topic. I would warn to read the Bible yourself and be very aware of the context before taking the snippets of versus as fact though.
This book was provided by Zondervan in exchange for a review.
February 22, 2015
"Strengthening your body to strengthen your soul" - I love the premise of Thomas's book and there were definitely some gems here. I would like to have seen it develop more, though I understand the main part of the book needed to address the basics. I could see how parts of the book could be misconstrued but overall it was challenging.
God views and loves us as a "whole" person and it is true that very few churches address the "body" part of the "body, mind, spirit and soul" - the sins of gluttony and sloth aren't mentioned in your average sermon - I would love to see this kind of teaching more in churches. With our team members we have an accountability time with each of them individually and one of our 10 questions is about healthy eating and exercise - we include this for the same reason Thomas wrote this book - because God is concerned for us as a whole person, the physical, emotional and spiritual are all interconnected.
Also I appreciated his love for running and the examples that ensued and it was interesting to see him feature Kristen Armstrong, Dean Karnazes and Haruki Murakami, having read all of these authors specific "running" books.
God views and loves us as a "whole" person and it is true that very few churches address the "body" part of the "body, mind, spirit and soul" - the sins of gluttony and sloth aren't mentioned in your average sermon - I would love to see this kind of teaching more in churches. With our team members we have an accountability time with each of them individually and one of our 10 questions is about healthy eating and exercise - we include this for the same reason Thomas wrote this book - because God is concerned for us as a whole person, the physical, emotional and spiritual are all interconnected.
Also I appreciated his love for running and the examples that ensued and it was interesting to see him feature Kristen Armstrong, Dean Karnazes and Haruki Murakami, having read all of these authors specific "running" books.
Read
July 8, 2022DNF - I have a hard time with equating godliness and a healthy BMI. It could be because I do not have a healthy BMI and have struggled my whole life with body image. I don't disagree that our bodies are a gift and to be valued and protected as instruments of God. I do disagree with asserting that those who are less able bodied are in some way a disappointment or missing what God has for them.
May 18, 2013
Thought provoking. Didn't agree with everything.
January 16, 2018
It may be cliche, but I read this book as part of my New Year's goal to work toward better physical health. I'm so glad I did!
Gary Thomas covers an extremely wide variety of topics in his exhortation to pursue health as a means of being available to do "every good work" for God. From inspiring stories of other believers who have struggled with overeating or inactivity, to insights from great theological thinkers from hundreds of years ago, to medical doctors and sports experts, he draws from an incredible amount of sources to inspire and inform. Above all, Gary constantly looks to the Bible for an accurate, godly understanding of the proper role our physical bodies play while we're on earth. He seeks to honestly interpret scripture according to its context and authorial intent and balances our need to be disciplined and diligent with our ever-present reliance on God's grace and sustaining hand. Perhaps one of the chapters that best illustrates this balance is Chapter 6 which deals with the question, "Is being overweight a sin?" The author makes use of many resources and lines of reasoning in his answer.
I would strongly encourage the book to be read as a whole. There were a couple times where I thought the author might go too far in one perspective, but he adeptly balanced it out in other sections of the book. I would also recommend the audiobook version. It's read by the author and not only is it fast-paced (which is great for everything but taking notes), but the author's emphasis and the compassion in his voice really helped me to soak up the content.
Some of my favorite points:
1. "If I'm going to hurt in this fallen world, and everyone one of us will, I'd rather hurt and be sore getting in shape than hurt than hurt and be sore because my body isn't fit." Fitness isn't about avoiding a disease, it's about avoiding frailty.
2. Our bodies contain our souls and affect our souls. Christians who don't take their health seriously, don't take their mission seriously. We need to guard against the error that our bodies are irrelevant at best and our enemies at worst.
3. "What God asks us to give up are the very things that scripture and the Christian classics testify make war against us. Things that not only make us miserable but also keep us from more profound and deeper joys than we could ever have imagined...Just as abuse of our bodies can gradually numb us to Christ's presence, so caring for our bodies can warm us up to his initiating grace."
4. "True grace doesn't kill effort, it motivates and empowers effort."
5. Different methods of working out "won't substitute for regular study, prayer and spiritual devotions, but taking off the shackles of laziness, overeating at the physical debilitation brought about by ignoring physical fitness can set our souls on a course of pursing God with a renewed vigor, earnestness and delight."
6. "A weak belief produces a weak commitment."
7. "Humility is not lack of confidence but acknowledgement of dependence."
8. "God's desire for us to be delivered from slavery of any kind is an expression of his love not an attitude of divine disappointment." Every time we sin is a point of disagreement with God. Look back to see 'When/where did I start to disagree with God?'"
9. "Growing in one virtue helps us in all aspects of character, but one compromise endangers everything...a pampered vice produces many offspring...the soul by the neglect of little things becomes accustomed to unfaithfulness."
10. "Laziness ends up wasting our lives in a spectacularly non-scandalous fashion so that we don't see just how destructive it is...neglect and laziness kill the best things in life."
11. God is a God of activity. As his image-bearers, we also ought to be active.
12. "Physical fitness is like farming. Much of the work that produces it is unseen. No one is applauding or even recognizing our efforts, but the life it creates can be used by God to bless and serve many. The planting is grueling; the harvest can be great."
13. Our bodies and our souls are encrusted with dross (elements that make us less than useful or prepared for any good work). It has to be removed for our bodies to be refined.
14. "Fighting excess and laziness hasn't toward lead me to legalism it has lead to me deeper empathy toward others." Our struggles help us understand the struggles of others, they give us compassion and help us to learn endurance and suffering well.
15. Honor God TODAY. Make good choices with the resources you have today. You may not be where you want to be overall, but each day, each moment, is a new opportunity to honor God. The soul and the body go hand in hand in this goal.
There is much encouragement in this book about the use and purpose of our physical bodies for the glory of God. There's also practical advice, relatable anecdotes, conviction and humor. This is one I'll be coming back to.
Gary Thomas covers an extremely wide variety of topics in his exhortation to pursue health as a means of being available to do "every good work" for God. From inspiring stories of other believers who have struggled with overeating or inactivity, to insights from great theological thinkers from hundreds of years ago, to medical doctors and sports experts, he draws from an incredible amount of sources to inspire and inform. Above all, Gary constantly looks to the Bible for an accurate, godly understanding of the proper role our physical bodies play while we're on earth. He seeks to honestly interpret scripture according to its context and authorial intent and balances our need to be disciplined and diligent with our ever-present reliance on God's grace and sustaining hand. Perhaps one of the chapters that best illustrates this balance is Chapter 6 which deals with the question, "Is being overweight a sin?" The author makes use of many resources and lines of reasoning in his answer.
I would strongly encourage the book to be read as a whole. There were a couple times where I thought the author might go too far in one perspective, but he adeptly balanced it out in other sections of the book. I would also recommend the audiobook version. It's read by the author and not only is it fast-paced (which is great for everything but taking notes), but the author's emphasis and the compassion in his voice really helped me to soak up the content.
Some of my favorite points:
1. "If I'm going to hurt in this fallen world, and everyone one of us will, I'd rather hurt and be sore getting in shape than hurt than hurt and be sore because my body isn't fit." Fitness isn't about avoiding a disease, it's about avoiding frailty.
2. Our bodies contain our souls and affect our souls. Christians who don't take their health seriously, don't take their mission seriously. We need to guard against the error that our bodies are irrelevant at best and our enemies at worst.
3. "What God asks us to give up are the very things that scripture and the Christian classics testify make war against us. Things that not only make us miserable but also keep us from more profound and deeper joys than we could ever have imagined...Just as abuse of our bodies can gradually numb us to Christ's presence, so caring for our bodies can warm us up to his initiating grace."
4. "True grace doesn't kill effort, it motivates and empowers effort."
5. Different methods of working out "won't substitute for regular study, prayer and spiritual devotions, but taking off the shackles of laziness, overeating at the physical debilitation brought about by ignoring physical fitness can set our souls on a course of pursing God with a renewed vigor, earnestness and delight."
6. "A weak belief produces a weak commitment."
7. "Humility is not lack of confidence but acknowledgement of dependence."
8. "God's desire for us to be delivered from slavery of any kind is an expression of his love not an attitude of divine disappointment." Every time we sin is a point of disagreement with God. Look back to see 'When/where did I start to disagree with God?'"
9. "Growing in one virtue helps us in all aspects of character, but one compromise endangers everything...a pampered vice produces many offspring...the soul by the neglect of little things becomes accustomed to unfaithfulness."
10. "Laziness ends up wasting our lives in a spectacularly non-scandalous fashion so that we don't see just how destructive it is...neglect and laziness kill the best things in life."
11. God is a God of activity. As his image-bearers, we also ought to be active.
12. "Physical fitness is like farming. Much of the work that produces it is unseen. No one is applauding or even recognizing our efforts, but the life it creates can be used by God to bless and serve many. The planting is grueling; the harvest can be great."
13. Our bodies and our souls are encrusted with dross (elements that make us less than useful or prepared for any good work). It has to be removed for our bodies to be refined.
14. "Fighting excess and laziness hasn't toward lead me to legalism it has lead to me deeper empathy toward others." Our struggles help us understand the struggles of others, they give us compassion and help us to learn endurance and suffering well.
15. Honor God TODAY. Make good choices with the resources you have today. You may not be where you want to be overall, but each day, each moment, is a new opportunity to honor God. The soul and the body go hand in hand in this goal.
There is much encouragement in this book about the use and purpose of our physical bodies for the glory of God. There's also practical advice, relatable anecdotes, conviction and humor. This is one I'll be coming back to.
December 18, 2020
Good book on a daring topic, could have been (slightly) better still.
Pros:
+One of very few Christian authors I know of who has been courageous enough to write a straightforward book on such a "touchy" subject.
+Makes a good, Biblically based, argument for exercise and healthy habits, which is what this book essentially tries to do. As such it is successfull.
+Well written and easy to read, combining both Biblical arguments and modern day examples and inspiration.
Cons:
+The author does not seem to be up to date on the newest knowledge in nutrition and fitness research, nor on Behavioural Economics and habit design studies. Consequently his focus on not overeating may render some readers clueless when they follow his advice, but eating the wrong things they still do not see the results they hope for.
+Perhaps not to be expected in a book like this one, yet still important, is the topic of rest and restitution. I sort of get an "all in", "just go for it" type of action-pressed feeling when reading this book. A chapter on the importance of rest and restitution would have been natural since every serious athlete must also be serious about these things and it would have brought about a better balance in the book, I think. (Try reading "The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry" by J. M. Comer and this book at the same time and you get a very interesting discussion of minds. Compatible and pieces to the same puzzle I would argue, but still interesting).
+Despite seeming rather well acquainted with Christian classics, the author does not deal with the Platonic dualism that has plagued the Church throughout the ages. It would not be very difficult to make the Biblical case for a holistic, body-friendly view of humankind, but the author does not go there. (World-class NT-scholar N.T.Wright's "Surprised by Hope" among others comes to mind if you would like to dive deeper in this topic. The New Testament does not preach salvation from the body but of the body, and as such the Biblical authors confirm our corporal human state although the Church has often done differently).
+Similarly the author's main argument, that the reason to care for our physical body is that it is to be useful to the Lord is an instrumental one. As the title reads: "Strenghtening your body to strenghten your soul" indicates that the soul is the important part). Although his case is a good one it is still a secondary one. The primary reason for caring for your physical body would not be that it is to be useful to the Lord (although this is also true), but simply that is the right thing to do! If we combine the facts that we are created with a physical body by God and modern science has shown time and again that we get all sorts of diseases from living sedentary lives. With the fact that the mission of the Kingdom of God as presented by Jesus is the redemption of all things, making all things the way they are supposed to be. Then what follows logically is that us living movement-rich lives is simply the way things are meant to be and thus the right thing to do for us as followers of Jesus who tries to bring about the Kingdom in and around ourselves. Missing out on this argument I am surprised to find that in reality the author may go a long way in expressing an implicit dualism in favour of the soul at the same time as he is arguing in favour of exercise and the body! This is the major drawback I find in an otherwise very good book.
Pros:
+One of very few Christian authors I know of who has been courageous enough to write a straightforward book on such a "touchy" subject.
+Makes a good, Biblically based, argument for exercise and healthy habits, which is what this book essentially tries to do. As such it is successfull.
+Well written and easy to read, combining both Biblical arguments and modern day examples and inspiration.
Cons:
+The author does not seem to be up to date on the newest knowledge in nutrition and fitness research, nor on Behavioural Economics and habit design studies. Consequently his focus on not overeating may render some readers clueless when they follow his advice, but eating the wrong things they still do not see the results they hope for.
+Perhaps not to be expected in a book like this one, yet still important, is the topic of rest and restitution. I sort of get an "all in", "just go for it" type of action-pressed feeling when reading this book. A chapter on the importance of rest and restitution would have been natural since every serious athlete must also be serious about these things and it would have brought about a better balance in the book, I think. (Try reading "The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry" by J. M. Comer and this book at the same time and you get a very interesting discussion of minds. Compatible and pieces to the same puzzle I would argue, but still interesting).
+Despite seeming rather well acquainted with Christian classics, the author does not deal with the Platonic dualism that has plagued the Church throughout the ages. It would not be very difficult to make the Biblical case for a holistic, body-friendly view of humankind, but the author does not go there. (World-class NT-scholar N.T.Wright's "Surprised by Hope" among others comes to mind if you would like to dive deeper in this topic. The New Testament does not preach salvation from the body but of the body, and as such the Biblical authors confirm our corporal human state although the Church has often done differently).
+Similarly the author's main argument, that the reason to care for our physical body is that it is to be useful to the Lord is an instrumental one. As the title reads: "Strenghtening your body to strenghten your soul" indicates that the soul is the important part). Although his case is a good one it is still a secondary one. The primary reason for caring for your physical body would not be that it is to be useful to the Lord (although this is also true), but simply that is the right thing to do! If we combine the facts that we are created with a physical body by God and modern science has shown time and again that we get all sorts of diseases from living sedentary lives. With the fact that the mission of the Kingdom of God as presented by Jesus is the redemption of all things, making all things the way they are supposed to be. Then what follows logically is that us living movement-rich lives is simply the way things are meant to be and thus the right thing to do for us as followers of Jesus who tries to bring about the Kingdom in and around ourselves. Missing out on this argument I am surprised to find that in reality the author may go a long way in expressing an implicit dualism in favour of the soul at the same time as he is arguing in favour of exercise and the body! This is the major drawback I find in an otherwise very good book.
July 6, 2022
As a follower of Christ and a NBC-HWC, this book was challenging, affirming, and encouraging. There is so much that can be said of how God uses (or wants to us) every aspect of our lives, including our physical health. No matter what that may look like, it's important to keep in mind how our witness plays into our bodies and how His glory and our sanctification can come through our perseverance of physical and spiritual wellness. The Scripture references and examples placed in this book were really inspiring to have in parallel to what Gary was addressing. Yes, there is a clear agenda with this book. And there's no doubt that that has probably turned a lot of people off. But the general points made, in my opinion, are valid ones. I also found that what he said of the challenge during physical exertion being a great time to pray and lean on God's strength to be true. At least in my own pursuit of a healthier body and spirit. It's all connected. He may be right about how the church may be a bit "soft" and possess less extreme, yet sinful habits that need reflection and intentional time with God to make sure they aren't preventing us from growing in His likeness.
August 27, 2018
This book was very thought provoking. It focuses on 2 Timothy 2:20-21 with added emphasis on v21.
"Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work."
How do we live our physical lives in such a way that we may be tools in the hands of God, useful and prepared for -any- good work.
The author argues we must battle against the temptations of gluttony and sloth while also incorporating healthy fitness and eating regimens.
THIS IS NOT A BOOK THAT EMPLOYS GUILT TACTICS TO MAKE YOU THINK YOU MUST BE SKINNY TO FOLLOW GOD WELL. He argues against this and clarifies his point about this often. His writing is full of grace and very empowering.
My only qualm is I wish it incorpated more tips on living this out in practice, but I understand it looks different for everyone and intrntionally leaving that out could combat legalism in this area.
Overall recommend. A topic that needs to be addressed more in the modern, Western church.
"Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work."
How do we live our physical lives in such a way that we may be tools in the hands of God, useful and prepared for -any- good work.
The author argues we must battle against the temptations of gluttony and sloth while also incorporating healthy fitness and eating regimens.
THIS IS NOT A BOOK THAT EMPLOYS GUILT TACTICS TO MAKE YOU THINK YOU MUST BE SKINNY TO FOLLOW GOD WELL. He argues against this and clarifies his point about this often. His writing is full of grace and very empowering.
My only qualm is I wish it incorpated more tips on living this out in practice, but I understand it looks different for everyone and intrntionally leaving that out could combat legalism in this area.
Overall recommend. A topic that needs to be addressed more in the modern, Western church.
October 20, 2021
Wow. I was already a fan of Gary Thomas (or "Uncle Gary" as I refer to him since I have the same last name). I've read "Sacred Marriage" and "Cherish" and both have made an impact on my marriage. This one was the awakening I needed to start taking care of my body, here as I approach 40 and my metabolism slows. I had always been able to eat whatever I wanted, and I'm realizing that I have a problem with overeating, even though I'm not technically overweight. I listened to the audio version (which the author narrates), but I often had to pause and go back to be able to take notes on my phone. And this was the first author that I actually listened to portions of it at 0.5 speed so that I had time to take notes on what he was saying. It's a little early to say, but right now, I view this book as life-changing for me. I hope it affects the trajectory of my life heading forward. Thanks, "Uncle Gary"!
June 14, 2017
The book started slow for me... and I even struggled picking it back up to continue about 1/3rd of the way through -- just wasn't really connecting with the message/relating. Then out of nowhere this thing just hit home! It was so good to read -- a tough mind + spirit + body combo is what the world needs today...not some lazy, soft, slothful, half-hearted in discipline Christian. It was very empowering & encouraging to read... our physical health/discipline matters and should be a topic the church talks about rather than skirts around in fear of offending others. Let us press on in the race & honor God with our health, not overlook it while attempting to be diligent & disciplined in other areas of our lives.
Overall I'd say the book was a 4.5 star rating. Not the BEST book I've ever read, but I was a very good tool/motivator.
Overall I'd say the book was a 4.5 star rating. Not the BEST book I've ever read, but I was a very good tool/motivator.
September 19, 2025
I picked up this book just as an easy read and I hope it would encourage me. I was desiring to become healthier physically but also with my relationship with food. My overall thoughts on this book are mixed. There were a lot of pretty good points made, and I was often encouraged. However, there were at least two instances in every chapter that caused me to cringe in disagreement and disappointment. The overall theme is basically to become a healthier person (athletic in the the authors terms) is to become more useful to God. There was one instance the author told a story of a man who felt because he was obese God was withholding aspects of his relationship with God. I just felt it was very shallow, very pull yourself up by the boot straps and be a manly man kind of book. I don’t regret reading it but I wouldn’t recommend it.
March 25, 2025
I picked up this book to find more ways to encourage myself to get physically fit and look at it from a new perspective and motivate me into more action. Mission accomplished! This is quite the topic to take on in a book. I enjoyed the different perspectives, stories, biblical references, and especially how it was all tied together at the end. I especially loved chapter 14 (I will re-read that chapter again and again as a summary with helpful reminders). Whether you agree with all, some, or nothing he says, he outlines the topic in a way that really makes you think about it and determine what is important in your own life.
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