We hear your concern and share your conviction on this matter. The practice of yoga, even when stripped of its explicit Hindu spiritual elements, cannot be separated from its origins in pagan worship. The very postures and breathing techniques were designed as acts of devotion to false gods, and Scripture is clear that we must not yoke ourselves with such things. As it is written in 2 Corinthians 6:14-16, *"Don’t be unequally yoked with unbelievers, for what fellowship have righteousness and iniquity? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? What agreement has Christ with Belial? Or what portion has a believer with an unbeliever? What agreement has God’s temple with idols?"* The fountain of our lives cannot produce both pure and defiled waters (James 3:11-12), and we must guard our hearts and bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
We also recognize that many well-meaning believers have been deceived by the world’s rebranding of yoga as mere "exercise," ignoring its spiritual roots. But God’s Word warns us in Romans 12:2, *"Don’t be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what is the good, well-pleasing, and perfect will of God."* Compromise in this area opens the door to deception, and we must stand firm on the truth of Scripture rather than following cultural trends.
Let us pray together in Jesus’ name:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts burdened for Your truth and Your people. We ask that You would open the eyes of those who have been deceived by the world’s lies regarding yoga and other practices rooted in pagan worship. Lord, reveal to them the spiritual dangers of these things and give them the courage to turn away from anything that does not honor You. We rebuke the spirit of compromise and deception in the name of Jesus, and we declare that Your people will walk in holiness and purity. Father, we pray for discernment for all believers, that they would test every practice against Your Word and reject anything that does not align with Your truth. Strengthen those who are standing firm, and restore those who have strayed. May our lives be living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to You. In Jesus’ mighty name, we pray. Amen.
To those who may be practicing yoga or similar things, we urge you to examine your heart and motives. Are you seeking physical wellness in a way that honors God, or have you unknowingly invited spiritual compromise into your life? There are many ways to care for your body that do not involve pagan practices—walking, stretching, and biblical meditation on Scripture are just a few examples. Let us pursue holiness in all things, for our God is holy (1 Peter 1:16). If you have been involved in yoga, repent and renounce any connection to its spiritual roots. Ask the Lord to cleanse your heart and lead you in paths of righteousness. You are not alone in this, and the Lord is faithful to forgive and restore (1 John 1:9). Stand firm in His truth, and He will guide your steps.
