Special Rule 3: Of the Only Lawful and Proper End of Exercise

The 3. Rule: Of the only both lawful, and proper end of exercise.

Exercises must be only for the refreshing or strengthening of the body or mind, or both, for by this they differ from all other benefits granted of God. Therefore as he that oppresses the heart with meat and drink abuses those benefits, and his action is unchristian, so he that spends much time, breaks his rest, and weans his mind from any duty of godliness, he abuses exercise or pastime: for of such abuse says Solomon, There is a way which is right in the sight of men, whose end is the way to death: yea, with laughter the mind is made heavy, and at the last gladness is made sorrow (Proverbs 14:12-13). Such joy and pastime he calls madness and folly (Ecclesiastes 2:3). So in the Prophet Isaiah (5:12), a woe is threatened to them, in whose banquets is the Harp, Viol, Pipe, etc., but the work of the Lord is not looked upon, and they consider not the work of his hand. So we are commanded, To redeem the time (Ephesians 5:16), which we do not, when our exercises do not make us more fit to all godly duties.