“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” (1 Timothy 4:8).

The more I’m at my CrossFit gym, the more I apply their unwritten rules to my church life too.

• Check your ego at the door. I am working out to get stronger, not to show off how awesome I am. But do I walk into church hoping everyone will admire my faithfulness? Arrogance has no place in the body of Christ.
• Cheer for others. The people who finish the workout last and struggle the most don’t get judged because they aren’t in great shape. They get the loudest cheers. Yet sometimes I judge those who are struggling in life. Shouldn’t my congregation be the place where the weak get the most compassion and support?
• Tell your trainers about any injuries. How can they help you if they have no idea what hurts? Still, I walk into church and hide my struggles and pain. The people God put in your life are there to help you. Let them serve you.
• You get out what you put into it. Going through the motions doesn’t change anything. Want your faith to grow? Get involved. Open up your Bible. Think about the words you are singing. Put the Word into practice.

My gym is fabulous, but it’s for this world only. Our churches have an infinitely more important message about eternal life.