Stewarding Your Body: The Temple of God
Have you ever stopped to think about how amazing it is that your body is the temple of God and that you get to steward it for His glory? Have you considered how God has provided everything we need to care for our bodies so we can be effective homemakers? Even before creating the creatures of the sea and land, God created vegetation and water to sustain them, and He provided Adam and Eve nourishment before He formed them into existence. This beautiful truth reminds us that we can trust in God's provision and use the natural resources He has created to help us care for our bodies.
As we embark on this journey to discover what it means to care for our bodies in the best possible way, let's keep in mind that God has already provided what we need. Let's learn to use the natural resources He has given us to be healthy and strong, so that we can better serve our families and communities and care for our bodies in the best possible way, both physically and spiritually. I pray that you will be blessed beyond measure!
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Your Body: The Temple of God
It's easy to take our bodies for granted and forget the incredible privilege it is to be entrusted with them. But the reality is, our bodies are not just mere vessels that carry us through life. They are a precious gift from our Creator, fearfully and wonderfully made.
As stewards of our bodies, we have a responsibility to care for them in the best way possible. Just as a temple is carefully maintained and kept clean, we can honor God by taking care of our bodies and treating them with respect. This means being mindful of the food we eat, the activities we engage in, the rest we allow ourselves, and more. When we make choices that promote our physical, emotional, and spiritual health, we are showing reverence to God and demonstrating our gratitude for the body He has given us.
How is the body the temple of God?
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 says, “What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.”
Ellen White, in her book The Ministry of Healing, emphasizes the importance of caring for our bodies in order to serve God effectively. She writes, "The physical life is to be carefully educated, cultivated, and developed, that through men and women the divine nature may be revealed in its fullness. Both the physical and the mental powers, with the affections, are to be so trained that they can reach the highest efficiency" (p. 127).
In other words, our physical health is not separate from our spiritual growth and our calling as homemakers but is actually intertwined with it. When we steward our bodies well, we are better equipped to serve and love others as Christ did. When we take care of ourselves physically, we have more energy, better mental clarity, and overall improved well-being. This allows us to serve effectively and with greater compassion, just as Christ did. We can minister to others through our physical health, whether it be through helping a neighbor plant her garden, cooking a meal for a mom who just gave birth, or simply having the energy to homeschool our children.
How stewarding your body equips you as a homemaker
As homemakers, we have been entrusted with a beautiful responsibility - to be the gatekeepers of our homes. One of the most important ways we can fulfill this role is by stewarding our bodies well. When we take care of our physical health, we become more capable and equipped to serve our families with joyful intention.
If we are constantly exhausted, dealing with chronic health issues, or struggling with mental and emotional challenges, we will likely struggle to be fully present and engaged with our family. By stewarding our bodies well, we not only honor God but also serve our families more effectively and compassionately.
Just imagine the impact we can have on our marriages, parenting, and homeschooling when we prioritize our health and well-being. We will have the strength to tackle the challenges of daily life, the endurance to keep going when things get tough, and the resilience to bounce back from setbacks.
When we honor God by taking care of our bodies, we set a good example for our children and those around us. We can show them how to live a healthy and balanced life, not just for our physical well-being, but also for our spiritual growth.
“Our very bodies are not our own, to treat as we please, to cripple by habits that lead to decay, making it impossible to render to God perfect service. Our lives and all our faculties belong to him.”
What does it mean to defile the temple of God?
As we understand that our bodies are the temple of God, it is essential to know what it means to defile it. As mentioned earlier, our bodies are not our own and we were bought with a price (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Therefore, anything that we do that does not glorify God defiles the temple of God.
For example, consuming harmful substances such as drugs and excessive alcohol not only harms our physical health but also affects our mental and emotional well-being. Engaging in sexual immorality, including premarital sex and adultery, goes against God's commandments and can lead to guilt, brokenness, and emotional pain.
Indulging in unhealthy eating habits and not practicing self-control can also cause harm to our bodies. Consuming excessive amounts of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats can lead to weight gain, high blood pressure, and a host of other health problems. Lack of sleep can lead to fatigue, mood swings, and a weakened immune system. As stewards of our bodies, it is our responsibility to make conscious decisions that are not only life-giving but also honor our commitment to God's calling for our lives.
Proverbs 23:7 says, "For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he." Our thoughts and emotions have a significant impact not only on our bodies but our relationships and the atmosphere of our homes. Negativity and destructive thoughts can cause stress, anxiety, and depression, which keep us from thriving and doing our best in all we do.
How can I honor God with my body?
As homemakers, we hold a crucial position as home missionaries chosen by God to serve and care for our families. A healthy body is essential in fulfilling this calling. The choices we make every day regarding nourishment, rest, and exercise not only impact our families in the present but also for eternity. By stewarding our bodies well, we are better equipped to fulfill our roles and bless our families in countless ways. A healthy body has a better chance of living longer and having more years to be present for our loved ones. By investing in our health, we honor God and lay a foundation for a thriving Christ-centered home.
One way you can honor God through your body is by using it to serve your family with joy and love. Paul exhorts us in Colossians 3:23-24, "And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ."
When we use our bodies to serve our families wholeheartedly, we are doing it unto the Lord. Whether it's cooking a nourishing meal, folding mountains of laundry, or reciting Scripture with our children, we are honoring God.
Caring for Your Body: How to Treat Your Body Like a Temple
If you're looking for a practical way to care for your body and improve your overall health, consider the NEWSTART program. NEWSTART is an acronym that stands for Nutrition, Exercise, Water, Sunlight, Temperance, Air, Rest, and Trust in God. I love this comprehensive program because it emphasizes a holistic approach to health and provides practical tools and resources to help you make positive lifestyle changes. By implementing these principles into your life, you can experience improved physical, mental, and spiritual health. To learn more about the NEWSTART program, visit their website at www.newstart.com. Read on for a few practical tips:
1. Nutrition
Eating a healthy, balanced diet is not just a recommendation from health experts, but it is also a Biblical principle that brings us so much joy and vitality! In Genesis 1:29, God gave Adam and Eve a plant-based diet to sustain them, and throughout the Bible, we see countless examples of God's provision of nourishing foods. One way to care for our bodies through nutrition is to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into our diets, enjoying the vibrant colors and flavors of nature's bounty. We can also choose whole grains over refined grains, filling our bodies with the fiber and nutrients that keep us feeling our best.
Delicious and nutritious nuts and legumes are also great additions to any plate, offering protein, healthy fats, and fiber. By avoiding processed foods and excessive amounts of sugar and salt, we are helping our bodies function at their best. Our bodies thrive on whole, nutrient-dense foods that provide the fuel we need to be our best selves.
"And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat." - Genesis 1:29
2. Exercise
Regular exercise is a fantastic way to care for your body. Incorporating exercise into your daily routine can be a challenge, but it's important to make it a priority. You don't have to hit the gym for hours each day to get the benefits of exercise. Even a short brisk walk in your neighborhood can help you feel more energized and focused. Exercise can also help alleviate stress and anxiety, and improve sleep quality. A must for busy homemakers!
Finding an activity that you enjoy can make exercising a fun and fulfilling experience. Better yet — you could invite your spouse and children to join you! It can be hiking, swimming, or anything that gets your body moving. Making it a habit is also key to staying committed. So start small, maybe setting a goal to exercise for 20-30 minutes a day and gradually building up your endurance. Having a workout buddy or joining a fitness group can also provide accountability and support.
1 Timothy 4:8 says, "For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come." Exercise can help us feel energized and focused, allowing us to better serve God and those around us.
3. Water
In addition to practicing good nutrition, physical activity, and rest, drinking water is also vital to keeping our bodies healthy. As busy homemakers, it can be easy to forget to drink enough water throughout the day, but it's important to make it a priority. Have you ever had a stubborn headache from lack of hydration that kept you from getting things done? By drinking enough water, we not only prevent headaches but also boost our energy levels and improve our overall health.
Our bodies are made up of about 60% water, and we need to replenish it daily to maintain proper hydration levels. Drinking enough water not only helps our bodies function properly but can also have other benefits, such as improving skin health and aiding digestion. So, make sure to always have a water bottle with you. I like to keep a water bottle next to my bed as a helpful reminder to start my day with water. As soon as you wake up, take a few sips to jumpstart your body's hydration process. This simple habit can have a big impact on your day.
Psalm 63:1 says, "O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is." Just as our bodies crave water, our souls thirst for God.
4. Sunshine
Basking in the sun is not only enjoyable but also crucial for our well-being. It's amazing how our bodies can create a vital nutrient like Vitamin D when we soak up the sun's rays. Not only does this boost our mood and energy levels, but it also strengthens our immune system and regulates our sleep patterns. So, take a break and step outside for some sunshine. If you have children, invite them to join you outside. Spending time in the sun can be a simple yet effective way to care for our bodies.
Here are just a few outdoor activities you can enjoy with children:
Go on a nature scavenger hunt: Create a list of things to find in nature, like different types of leaves or rocks. Then, head outside with your children and see who can find everything on the list first.
Have a picnic: Pack a blanket and some snacks and head to a local park or beach to have a picnic with your family.
Go on a family bike ride: Take a leisurely bike ride with your family on a nearby trail or around your neighborhood.
Start a garden: Plant some vegetables or flowers in your yard or in pots on your balcony or porch. Involve your children in the process of watering and caring for the plants.
Play backyard games: Set up games like badminton, croquet, or cornhole in your backyard and play together as a family.
Take a walk: Take a walk around your neighborhood or a nearby park with your children. Point out interesting things you see along the way and talk about them.
Have a backyard campout: Set up a tent in your backyard and spend the night camping out with your family. Tell Bible stories under the stars.
Go on a nature hike: Find a local nature trail and take a hike with your family. Bring along a nature guidebook to identify plants and animals you come across.
Visit a nearby farm: Take your children to a local farm to see and interact with animals. Many farms also offer hayrides or other family-friendly activities.
Play in the water: Visit a nearby beach, lake, or pool and splash around with your children.
Ecclesiastes 11:7 says, "Truly the light is sweet, and a pleasant thing it is for the eyes to behold the sun."
5. Temperance
Temperance is an essential aspect of caring for our bodies. It means establishing healthy boundaries that align with Scripture. This includes making wise choices that honor our bodies and minds, such as avoiding harmful substances like drugs and alcohol, limiting our intake of unhealthy foods and beverages, and avoiding excessive screen time. We also make time for rest and relaxation, so that we can recharge and be ready to face life's challenges. Establishing these healthy boundaries can be challenging, but it ultimately allows us to live more purposefully and abundantly. It can be challenging to establish these healthy boundaries, but by doing so, we create space for rest, relaxation, and recharging.
"He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls." - Proverbs 25:28
6. Air
Breathing in fresh air is essential for our bodies, as it can improve lung function, reduce stress, and boost our mood. Taking a walk outside, enjoying a hike in the mountains, or simply sitting in a park and breathing in the fresh air can do wonders for our health.
Research has shown that a 20-minute break in nature reduces stress levels. Time in nature reduces the levels of cortisol, the hormone associated with stress. This means that being surrounded by nature and breathing in the fresh air can help us feel more relaxed and less anxious. Fresh air can also improve our lung function by increasing the amount of oxygen we take in and helping our bodies expel toxins. Spending time in nature and getting fresh air has also been shown to boost our immune system, helping our bodies fight off illness and disease.
So, how can we incorporate more fresh air into our daily routines? One simple way is to take a daily walk outside, even if it's just for a few minutes. Another way is to open the windows in our homes and let fresh air circulate. And for those who live in urban areas, visiting a local park or green space can provide a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whatever way we choose to do it, taking the time to get fresh air and spend time in nature is a wonderful way to care for our bodies and honor God's temple.
Genesis 2:7 says, "And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul." Just as God breathed life into Adam, fresh air can help us feel refreshed and rejuvenated.
6. Rest
Rest is an integral part of God’s design for our bodies. He deemed it vital that He mentioned it in the Ten Commandments.
“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work: you, nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your male servant, nor your female servant, nor your cattle, nor your stranger who is within your gates. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.”
Getting enough sleep and taking time to relax and recharge rejuvenates our bodies for the work that awaits us. By prioritizing rest, we are honoring God's commandments. We cannot serve Him well when we are exhausted and burnt out. Friend, He loves you so much and knew, long before He spoke the world into existence, that you would need the blessed gift of rest. Not just rest from homemaking, but rest from the busyness of everyday life.
Psalm 127:2 says, "It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep."
7. Trusting in God
As homemakers, we carry a tremendous weight on our shoulders. We often worry about raising our children well and maintaining a harmonious household. It's easy to feel overwhelmed and anxious about the many tasks that lie ahead. But we must remember that we are not alone in this journey. God is with us every step of the way. He is the one who holds the world in His hands, and He is the one who carries our burdens
When we trust in Him and lean on His strength, He equips us with everything we need to be effective homemakers whose seemingly mundane day-to-day tasks testify to His goodness and grace. We can rest in the knowledge that He will provide for our every need and guide us through the challenges that come our way. Let us place our trust in Him and let His love and grace empower us to be the homemakers that He has called us to be.
A call to joyfully steward the temple of God
Our physical health and spiritual growth go hand in hand, and we can find joy in trusting that God will provide for our needs as homemakers. We have the incredible privilege of nurturing and caring for our families, and our daily choices of nourishment, rest, and exercise impact not only our health but also that of our loved ones and our home. Let’s commit to honoring God with our lifestyle choices, and o let's choose joyfully and boldly to care for our bodies for His glory and our good.
