Caring for Our Physical Health

Caring for our physical health is not about vanity; it is helps ensure we can be present to show up for God. When we neglect our bodies, we limit the energy, mental clarity, and resilience we need to fulfill our daily obligations. This can make it very challenging to make time for God as we need when we don't feel our best.

I want to challenge you to look at wellness through a Biblical lens, and let's examine three areas where we can devote our time.

1. Nourishment

The way we fuel our bodies reflects our respect for God’s design. This is not a call to follow restrictive diets, but a call to mindfulness. Every bite is an opportunity to choose what helps our body function optimally.

• Mindful Choices: Shift your focus from "what I can't eat" to "what I can choose to energize my body." Choose whole, life-giving foods that provide sustained energy, helping you stay alert for prayer and service.

• Avoiding Idolatry: Beware of making food or body image an idol, obsessing over worldly standards of perfection. Our identity is secure in Christ, regardless of our size or shape. Our food choices should serve the mission, not define our worth.

2. Movement

Movement is a chance to express profound gratitude for the mechanics of your body—the muscles that lift, the heart that pumps, and the legs that carry you.

• Movement as Praise: Instead of punishing your body to achieve a certain look, view movement (whether it's a brisk walk or stretching) as gratitude for the wonderful way that God created you.

• Embracing the Gift: Physical ability is a gift. Honor that gift by using it. Even small moments of movement throughout the day can break through mental fog and let you feel more connected.

3. Rest

Perhaps the most challenging aspect of wellness for the dedicated woman is rest. We often measure our worth by our productivity, leading to burnout and exhaustion. Biblical rest, including sleep and the Sabbath, is a profound act of trust.

• Sleep as Spiritual Maintenance: God designed us to need sleep. When you intentionally prioritize rest, you are declaring, "God, the world will not fall apart without my effort right now. I trust You to manage the outcome." Adequate sleep restores mental and emotional reserves, preparing you to fully be present to serve God and those around you.

• The Sabbath Principle: Observe moments of true, soul-restorative Sabbath. This doesn't just mean sitting still; it means stopping your usual work to delight in God and His creation.

Conclusion:

True Christian wellness is holistic. It’s about ensuring that your physical, mental, and emotional health are all aligned and optimized so you can be fully present and effective in your spiritual life. As you go throughout your week, remember that your body is a masterpiece designed by the Creator. Steward it well, not out of obligation, but as a reminder you are wonderfully made.