Honoring the Temple: Living a Healthy Lifestyle
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it's easy to neglect our physical well-being amidst the demands of work, family, and other responsibilities. However, as believers, we're called to view our bodies in a different light – as temples of the Holy Spirit. This perspective, rooted in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, carries profound implications for how we approach our health and wellness today. Paul tells us “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”
The Sacredness of the Body
In ancient times, the temple was the holiest place for the Israelites – a sanctuary where they encountered the presence of God. Just as the temple was revered and meticulously cared for, we're reminded that our bodies serve as dwelling places for the Holy Spirit. This realization challenges us to treat our bodies with reverence and respect, recognizing with wonder and awe that God’s Spirit now resides within us and strengthens us every day. “For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith- that you being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:14-19
Purity and Holiness
The Old Testament temple was a symbol of purity and holiness, and strict guidelines governed its cleanliness. Similarly, we're called to maintain purity in our lives, including our physical health. This involves making wise choices about nutrition, exercise, rest, and avoiding harmful substances. By honoring our bodies in this way, we create space for the Holy Spirit to work within us, fostering spiritual growth and renewal. “Since we have these promises beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God.” 2 Corinthians 7:1
Stewardship of God's Gifts
As stewards of our bodies, we're entrusted with the responsibility of caring for them. Just as the priests were tasked with the upkeep of the temple, we're called to nurture and preserve our physical well-being. This means cultivating habits that promote health and vitality, such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep. By treating our bodies as precious gifts from God, we demonstrate gratitude for His provision and blessings. “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31
Sacrifice and Worship
In the Old Testament, sacrifices were offered in the temple as acts of worship and devotion to God. Today, we're called to present our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to Him (Romans 12:1). This involves surrendering our desires and submitting our will to God's purposes, including the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle. By prioritizing our physical health, we honor God with our bodies and align ourselves with His plan for abundant life. “Through Him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge His name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” Hebrews 13:15-16
Practical Steps Toward Health and Wholeness
Living a healthy lifestyle isn't just about physical fitness – it's about holistic well-being, encompassing body, mind, and spirit. Here are some practical steps to help you honor the temple of the Holy Spirit:
Nourish Your Body: In Genesis 1:29 God said, “Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.” God provided for Adam and Eve an abundance of healthy, nutrient dense fruits and veggies to sustain them and all throughout the Bible we see examples of God providing nourishment to His people. One way that we care for our body as God’s temple is by choosing whole, nutrient-rich foods that fuel your body and promote vitality. Aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods and sugar as much as possible to function at your best.
Move Your Body: 1 Timothy 4:8 says, “for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.” Incorporate regular exercise into your routine, whether it's walking, jogging, strength training, or whatever your preference may be. Small movements every day add up to big rewards. Exercise is not only good for our body, but it also helps relieve stress and anxiety, can improve sleep quality, and helps us feel more energized and focused so that we are better able to serve God and our families. Find activities you enjoy and make physical activity a priority.
Rest and Renewal: Prioritize rest and relaxation to recharge your body and mind. Rest is an integral part of God’s design for our body, and He set the example for us in Genesis when He rested on the seventh day of creation. Rest is also part of God’s commandments to His people. “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor, and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, you, or your son, or your daughter, your male servant, or your female servant, or your livestock, or the sojourner who is within your gates. For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.” Exodus 20:8-11. When we prioritize rest we are honoring God’s commandments. When we are trying to care for others and don’t take time for our own renewal, we can easily become exhausted and burnt out. It is not selfish to take some time to rest. Make time for adequate sleep, stress management, and activities that bring you joy and peace.
Avoid Harmful Substances: Be mindful of what you put into your body, avoiding substances that can harm your health, such as tobacco, excessive alcohol, and drugs. Even excess sugar consumption, unhealthy fats, and refined carbs can lead to unwanted health problems and can affect not only our physical wellbeing, but our mental and emotional wellbeing as well. Just as the temple was carefully maintained and cleaned, we also have a responsibility to honor God by caring for and respecting our body.
Cultivate Spiritual Health: Nurture your relationship with God through prayer, meditation on scripture, and study of His Word. Invite the Holy Spirit to guide and empower you in your journey toward wholeness. As we cultivate our relationship with the Lord, we will grow in His character and reflect Jesus to those we encounter every day.
Conclusion
As followers of Christ, we're called to view our bodies not as mere vessels but as sacred temples of the Holy Spirit. Jesus came and gave his life, shed His blood on the cross, and rose again to save us from our sin and make a way for us to be reconciled to God. “If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.” (Romans 8:11) When we truly embrace and recognize this, we're inspired to live lives of health and wholeness, honoring God with our bodies and experiencing the abundant life He desires for us. Let us strive to care for our physical well-being as an expression of worship and gratitude, knowing that our bodies are precious gifts entrusted to us by our Creator meant to bring glory and honor to Him above all.