Some Unproductive Exercises

By Gerald Cowan

It is generally known that exercise is good for one’s physical health. It helps the body to burn excess calories and prevents the build up of fat. It also helps keep the blood circulating freely, so that all parts of the body are properly nourished. It can reduce stress and help one relax. It has a way of helping one clear his mind, put things in sharper focus and proper perspective.

But there are some activities or exercises that do the body no good at all, nor do they do any good for the spirit that lives in the body. They burn no calories. They often increase stress and prevent relaxation. They are certain to keep one from functioning effectively. Here is a sample list of ineffective and unproductive activities, exercises we need to get along without. 
1. Beating around the bush.

2. Jumping to conclusions.

3. Passing the buck.

4. Throwing your weight around.

5. Patting yourself on the back.

6. Stirring up trouble.

7. Spreading gossip and rumor.

8. Adding fuel to the fire.

9. Dodging the issues.

10. Sidestepping responsibility.

11. Flying off the handle.

12. Grasping at straws.

13. Climbing the walls.

14. Running around in circles.

15. Jumping on the bandwagon.

16. Making mountains out of molehills.

17. Tooting your own horn.

18. Getting a jump on competitors. 

19. Holding back on  commitment.

20. Falling by the wayside.

21. Practicing deceit.

22. Interfering in others’ business.

23. Looking for trouble.

24. Promoting strife.

25. Pushing others aside.

26. Climbing the social ladder.

27. Digging in your heels.

28. Dragging your feet.

29. Killing time.

30. Carrying a grudge.

31. Driving an argument into the ground.

32. Sticking your nose where it doesn’t belong.

33. Splitting hairs.

34. Straining gnats.

35. Bending over backwards to get along.

36. Picking to pieces those who disagree with you.

37. Cutting others down to size.

38. Setting a bad example.

39. Joining the in crowd.

40. Polishing the boss’s boots.

41. Arguing against the truth.

42. Resisting authority.

43. Approving error.

44. Urging or tempting others to sin.

45. Rehashing mistakes of others.

46. Backing up when the Lord pushes you forward.

47. Leading someone astray.

48. Stepping on others to get ahead.

49. Defending the enemies of God.

50. Making excuses instead of corrections.

51. Stepping on others to get ahead.

- Gerald Cowan, a longtime preacher and missionary, is retired from full-time pulpit preaching. Gerald publishes an e-mail newsletter entitled GERALD COWAN’S PERSONAL PERIODICAL WRITINGS. He is available for Gospel Meetings and he may be contacted at Geraldcowan1931@aol.com