Playing a musical instrument has been a part of my life for over 40 years. Over the years I have learned some things:

A good instrument needs care. If neglected it will become dirty, parts will stick and it will corrode.
A good instrument needs constant tuning. It reacts to changes in the weather and how it is used.
To make the best possible sound the instrument needs to be played. The player only gets better through practice.
You cannot separate the instrument from the player and still expect great music.

I have a strong conviction that we should not separate our spiritual life from our physical life. God gave us an instrument.

We can't separate our spiritual and physical portions of our life. Romans 12:1 says: Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship.

When we accept Christ, God gives us gifts and talents so that we can bring glory to God. I believe it is then our responsibility to use these gifts and talents to the best of our ability. Also that means to use them for as long as we can, stay in shape so that we do nothing to hinder our life span here on earth. I have written on this subject here and here.

A few weeks ago I received a email from someone on my team who has also caught this vision:

Praise report: I have been earnestly working out since last May. However, late 2010 my doctor told me it was time to go on Insulin for diabetes and start on meds for hypertension. This cold had me back at the Dr Friday as I couldn't talk, eat or stay awake and I never take sick time from work.

I was dreading going to the Dr, but resolved myself to having to be on meds for diabetes and hypertension. My last resting labs my blood sugar was over 140. Friday just running in it was 63. I am no longer in the diabetic range and have worked out of the pre-diabetic range as well.

My blood pressure was in normal ranges for the first time in years. Exercise has helped me avoid hypertension.

What a great blessing and great motivation to keep on keeping on. Just thought you'd appreciate this small victory.

That small victory has turned into a larger one. Last weekend this person completed his first half-marathon.

The body is a miraculous instrument made by God. The instrument has been given to us and it our responsibility to keep it in tune.