My plate is full of commitments and responsibilities. I am sure yours is too. In a world where the demands of life seem never-ending, it’s easy to overlook one of the most precious gifts we’ve been entrusted with: our bodies. It’s important to remember that your body is more than just a “vessel”; it is a temple entrusted to you by a loving God for a purpose. The Bible says that God knit YOU together in your mother’s womb, and that YOU are fearfully and wonderfully made by him! In Ephesians 2:10 it says that He created you to do “good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Isn’t that so cool? Embracing your physical health isn’t just a matter of vanity or longevity but staying healthy is a way you can honor God and prepare yourself to be ready to answer His call.
On the other hand, when you neglect your physical health, you hinder your ability to fully be part of God’s plan and purpose for your life.
7 God Centered Reasons For Prioritizing Your Health:
1. Energy and Stamina to Serve Others: Physical health allows you to better serve those around you. When your body is strong, you can offer to help those who need a hand and can always be available in meaningful ways.
2. Clear Mind and Focus: A healthy body supports a healthy mind. When you care for your physical well-being, your mental clarity and your ability to “be present” improves and helps you more effectively discern God’s plan.
3. Resilience: God tells us that we will face problems in this life and I am sure you can relate. A strong mind and body helps equip you to handle stress and adversity and allows you to adapt to and manage the tough situations that come your way.
4. Ready for Action: God’s call can come at unexpected times. A well-maintained body ensures you are ready to spring into action whenever and wherever God leads you.
5. Setting an Example: Your actions speak volumes. By prioritizing physical health, you set an example for others, possibly inspiring them to also take care of their bodies.
6. Greater Endurance: God’s call often involves a marathon, not a sprint. Good physical health prepares you for the long journey, helping you stay committed to your purpose.
7. Gratitude in Action: Nurturing your body is an expression of gratitude for the life God has given you. It’s a tangible and practical way to say “thank you”.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reminds us, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.” This scripture emphasizes the sacredness of our bodies as dwelling places for the holy spirit. If you view your body as God’s temple, it’s your responsibility to maintain and care for it in ways that honor him. If you do this, you pave the way for a life of greater energy, resilience, and readiness to embark on the journey God has designed for you!
I find a big motivator for me to care for my health is because of God. He loves me and calls me worthy so I too must love myself enough to make caring for the one body that God has called me to steward to a priority.