Running and brisk walking can be effective exercises to help you stay healthy. They can also be a source of great joy and determination in your day. Yet even the best runners sometimes need encouragement. Whether you are a beginner, an avid racer, or simply taking your daily walk, Scripture can give you the boost you need. Here are the best Bible verses for walking and running, that will inspire your exercise, from warm up to cool down:
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Bible Verses for Warming Up Before Running or Walking
Give these Biblical verses a read before you head out on your run or walk. As you stretch or put your shoes on, let them remind you that taking care of your body is taking care of God’s gift to you.
- “Let all that you do be done in love.” —1 Corinthians 16:14
- “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” —Psalm 118:24
- “For we walk by faith, not by sight.” —2 Corinthians 5:7
- “May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy.” —Colossians 1:11
Bible Verses for Exercise Burn Out
Whether you are a new runner or a pro, it’s important to give yourself days off so your body can rest. Doing too much, too often, can lead to exercise burnout. Use these verses to keep your spirits high on the days you don’t run. Remember: there is always tomorrow.
- “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” —Matthew 11:28
- “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” —John 16:33
- “For nothing will be impossible with God.” —Luke 1:37
- “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” —Philippians 1:6
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Bible Verses for Encouraging Others During Your Workout
Exercising with friends or family can be a great way to hold each other accountable and make working out fun! Even if there are days when we don’t feel like getting up, a word of encouragement from a loved one can go a long way. Let these verses bring you and your workout buddy inspiration.
- “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” —1 Thessalonians 5:11
- “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” —Isaiah 40:31
- “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” —Deuteronomy 31:8
- “I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong— that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith.” —Romans 1:11-12
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Bible Verses for Cooling Down After Running or Walking
Like the end of a long day, all walks and runs must come to an end. It doesn’t matter whether you sprint or walk past the finish line, as long as you make it there. It can take time before you start to feel the energizing effects of exercise. Use these uplifting verses to cool down and remind yourself to take it one step at a time.
- “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” —Hebrews 11:1
- “Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and joy are in his place.” —1 Chronicles 16:27
- “For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have.” —2 Corinthians 8:12
- “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” —Joshua 1:9
What Bible verses do you turn to when you exercise? What Scriptures keep you encouraged as you run or walk?
