Our bodies are often referred to as “temples” in Christian teachings, but what exactly does the Bible say about taking care of your physical self? Is there a spiritual element to health and wellness, and how does scripture guide us in this area? Let’s see what the Bible teaches about caring for our bodies.
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What Does The Bible Say About Taking Care Of Your Body
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“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 verse reminds us that as Christians, our bodies are not our own but rather temples of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, we should take care of our bodies and honor God with them by leading a healthy lifestyle.
By choosing to live a healthy lifestyle, we are not only honoring God but also ensuring that our bodies are able to serve Him fully and effectively.
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
This verse encourages us to approach every aspect of our lives, including taking care of our bodies, with the intention of glorifying God.
When we make conscious choices to nourish our bodies with healthy food and drinks and engage in regular exercise, we are honoring God by being good stewards of the bodies He has given us.
1 Timothy 4:8
“For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.”
This verse acknowledges the importance of physical training and exercise, while also emphasizing that godliness holds greater value both in this life and the life to come.
While taking care of our bodies is important, our primary focus should be on growing in godliness and building our relationship with Him.
Proverbs 4:20-22
“My son, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words. Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to one’s whole body.”
In this verse, we are reminded to listen and pay attention to God’s words because they bring life and health to our entire being, including our physical bodies.
By prioritizing the study and application of God’s Word in our lives, we invite His divine wisdom and healing power to flow through us.
Proverbs 12:18
“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”
This verse highlights the power of our words and their impact on our well-being.
When we choose to speak words of wisdom, encouragement, and healing, we not only contribute to the well-being of others but also cultivate a positive environment that nurtures our own physical and emotional health.
1 Peter 3:3-4
“Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”
This verse reminds us that true beauty and worth are not determined by external appearance or material possessions but by the inner qualities of a gentle and quiet spirit.
By cultivating qualities such as humility, kindness, and love, we not only honor God but also contribute to our own emotional and mental well-being.
Psalm 139:14
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
This verse acknowledges the wonderful way in which God has created each one of us.
By embracing and appreciating our unique God-given characteristics, we can develop a positive body image and nurture a healthy relationship with our physical selves.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things, there is no law.”
In this verse, the Apostle Paul lists the fruit of the Spirit, which are qualities that should be evident in the lives of believers.
When we cultivate these fruit in our lives, including self-control, we are better equipped to make choices that positively impact our overall well-being, including taking care of our bodies.
1 Corinthians 9:27
“No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.”
The Apostle Paul uses an analogy here to emphasize the importance of discipline and self-control in the pursuit of our spiritual calling.
Just as an athlete must train their body to compete and win, we should discipline ourselves to ensure that our bodies are not a hindrance but a tool to fulfill God’s purposes in our lives.
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
This powerful verse reminds us that with God’s strength, we have the ability to overcome challenges and accomplish all that He has called us to do.
When it comes to taking care of our bodies, we can lean on God’s strength and seek His guidance in making choices that promote health and well-being.
Romans 12:1
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”
This verse encourages us to present our bodies as living sacrifices, dedicated and pleasing to God.
When we make choices that prioritize our physical health and well-being, we are offering our bodies as a living testimony of our love and devotion to God.
Proverbs 17:22
“A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.”
This verse highlights the connection between our emotional well-being and physical health.
Choosing joy and cultivating a cheerful heart can have a positive impact on our overall vitality, reinforcing the importance of taking care of our mental and emotional state.
Romans 14:17
“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.”
While this verse addresses the significance of spiritual matters, it indirectly emphasizes the importance of a balanced lifestyle.
Maintaining a healthy balance in our eating and drinking habits can contribute to our overall well-being and enable us to experience righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
Proverbs 3:7-8
“Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones.”
This verse exhorts us to humbly seek the Lord’s wisdom, detest evil, and acknowledge His authority in our lives.
Through our reverence for God and obedience to His commands, we can experience physical health and vitality as He blesses our bodies.
Ephesians 2:10
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
This verse reminds us that we are God’s creation, intentionally crafted by Him for a specific purpose.
By nurturing our physical well-being, we can ensure that our bodies are ready and capable to serve the Lord and fulfill the good works He has prepared for us.
1 Timothy 5:23
“Stop drinking only water and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses.”
In this verse, the Apostle Paul advises Timothy to use a little wine for medicinal purposes.
While this specific instruction may not apply to everyone, it does highlight the importance of considering our individual health needs and seeking appropriate remedies when necessary.
Psalm 23:2-3
“He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.”
This beloved Psalm illustrates God’s provision and care for His people.
Just as God guides us to places of rest and refreshment, it is important to prioritize rest and relaxation in our lives to maintain physical and emotional well-being.
3 John 1:2
“Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.”
The Apostle John expresses his desire for the recipient of this letter to enjoy good health and overall well-being.
This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of praying for both our spiritual and physical needs, recognizing that God is concerned for every aspect of our lives.
Mark 6:31
“Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.'”‘
In this verse, Jesus recognizes the need for rest and invites His disciples to prioritize it.
As followers of Christ, we should prioritize rest and self-care, recognizing the importance of physical and emotional rejuvenation in order to effectively serve God and others.
Ecclesiastes 8:15
“So I commend the enjoyment of life because there is nothing better for a person under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad. Then joy will accompany them in their toil all the days of the life God has given them under the sun.”
In this verse, the writer of Ecclesiastes emphasizes the importance of finding enjoyment in life, including the simple pleasures of eating and drinking.
While moderation is key, we should remember to take pleasure in the blessings God has provided, including the nourishment and sustenance we receive from food.
Proverbs 15:30
“A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.”
Our facial expressions and demeanor can impact both ourselves and those around us.
Through a cheerful countenance, we can contribute to our own emotional and physical well-being, as well as bring joy to others.
Isaiah 40:29
“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.”
This verse assures us that God is the ultimate source of strength and power, both in our physical and spiritual lives.
When we feel weary or weak, we can lean on God’s strength to sustain us and help us persevere through challenging circumstances.
Hebrews 12:11
“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”
Discipline is necessary for personal growth and development, including in the area of physical health.
While it may be challenging at times, prioritizing discipline and making healthy choices will yield long-term benefits, promoting righteousness and inner peace in our lives.