Why is spiritual exercise important for Christians?

Spiritual exercise is crucial for believers because it cultivates a heart that is sensitive to God's voice and active in seeking His will. As stated in Hebrews 12:11, the result of being spiritually exercised leads to the 'peaceable fruit of righteousness.' This fruit signifies not only personal growth but also contributes to the overall holiness of the church body. Regular spiritual exercise helps believers to remain steadfast and responsive to God's chastening and guiding hand while ensuring they are not hardened or indifferent to sin. Ultimately, it fosters a deeper relationship with God through active faith, prayer, and understanding of His Word, which are essential for spiritual health and maturity.