Physical training of some value; Spiritual training more valuable

I Timothy 4:8 (AB)

For physical training is of some value (useful for a little), but godliness (spiritual training) is useful and of value in everything and in every way, for it holds promise for the present life and also for the life which is to come.

This verse speaks to the priority of spiritual training over physical training.  I have several friends—neighbors and co-workers—who I think of when I read this verse.  These friends are always concerned about their bodies.  They spend enormous energy and time working out, eating right, and they do look good.  Indeed Paul states that physical training is of some value so the Bible does not put down or discourage working out and physical training.

I am thinking of one friend, in particular, who is over 50, works out daily to train for triathlons, probably is in as great physical shape as anyone I know.  Yet, he is spiritually bankrupt.  I have tried a few times to talk to him about his faith, about spiritual matters, and he simply derogates me.  He’s even had the Ted Turner attitude (former for Mr. Turner, he has since changed his view) that Christianity is for the weak.

Yet, this passage is clear that the priority of the believer is not physical training.  The priority is spiritual training.  Why?  Because our physical life is finite, but our spiritual life is infinite.  Note that spiritual training is useful and of value.  For what?  For everything and in every way.  What does this mean?  By being godly (Christlike) because of spiritual training (knowing and practicing Scriptural principles, discipline in our prayer life and all aspects of our daily living), we can claim everything that the creator of this universe and all of life can offer.  I like what I Corinthians 2:12 says: “Now we have received, not the spirit of the world (e.g. priority of physical training), but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things freely given to us by God (priority of spiritual training)”   

We sincere Christians intellectually know this, but are we obedient to this thinking?  Where is your priority—your body or your spirit?  What are you doing to build up your godliness via spiritual training?