May 22, 2023

Potential Shallowness, Mutual Respect, and Physical Fitness

ONE Thought (from us)

Staying healthy for your spouse is about way more than how you look. Is it true that people “let themselves go” and gain weight once they’re married? To be honest, we’re not sure on the stats about that. We do know that it’s better to be healthy than not! God gave you a body to be used for his glory, why wouldn’t you aim for getting more mileage for the Gospel from the body he provided? And, why can’t you and your spouse help each other to that end and toward that purpose?

In a recent podcast episode, we looked at what the Bible said about health, laziness, gluttony, and physical attraction. God cares about each one! Our conclusion: Being physically attracted and attractive to your spouse is natural and good, and physical health (not being a supermodel) is a worthwhile goal. The question is, how can you aim for it together? And, how can you bring up the topic when it tends to get easily charged? Here are four steps forward:

  • Establish your baseline: God’s Word says that health is good, gluttony is a serious sin (like drunkenness), and laziness is serious folly. 
  • Define your goals: Health, not appearance, is the best starting place. 
  • Calibrate expectations: Factor in your age, stage of life, health issues, body type, etc. 
  • Give yourselves permission to bring it up.

We discussed this at length in this week’s podcast, “Am I Shallow for Caring that My Husband Gained Weight?”. Hope to see you there!

“…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.”
(1 Timothy 4:8)


ONE Quote (from another)

“The greatest marriages are built on teamwork. A mutual respect, a healthy dose of admiration, and a never-ending portion of love and grace.”
― Fawn Weaver


ONE Question (for you)

Are you and your spouse in agreement about why health is worth prioritizing in your marriage? Why or why not?


Note: This topic was covered in this week’s podcast episode! We encourage you to give it a listen or a watch! Also don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Until next week, stay fierce!

Ryan & Selena Frederick
Founders of Fierce Marriage