COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — The elliptical machine in 69-year-old Bob Stephens’ home gym is stretching its handlebars to hang three coats. “We’re not going to gain favor with God because we lose weight or we eat more vegetables. Renewing your mind through the word is a way that we can please God ,” Stephens said, citing prayer, meditation, and sharing the Gospel, all practices that surpass surface-level changes. “If I want to lose weight, eat healthier and be in better shape, that benefits my family,” he said. “I don’t think God looks at that in a negative way.”This article has been republished with permission from Baptist Press.

Source: Forbes January 02, 2026 21:37 UTC