1 Tim. 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.”
He didn’t say that physical training is of no value, he recognizes that it is of some value. How often do we use this verse to blow off exercise?
1 Cor. 10: 31 “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
All of our choices should honor God. Eating right, exercise, getting enough sleep, resting and having fun. These are all important steps in our life to take care of ourselves. We must take good care of ourselves because we are the Temple of God, but also because we are supposed to be loving ourselves. If we are commanded to love our neighbors as we love ourselves, how can we if we don’t love ourselves?! Neglecting or abusing our body is not loving ourselves. We need to be healthy to carry out God’s will, we have to be full, not empty, so that we have something to give others.
If you have ever been on a plane, you will remember that the flight attendants always tell us in the event of an emergency to -secure your own oxygen mask first…before trying to help children or other passengers. This is essential because if we pass out due to lack of oxygen, we will not be able to help them.
We have to care for ourselves first to be able to care for others. Making our health a priority is being a good steward of the body God gave us but it is also an act of gratitude and worship to Him. We need to know that -taking care of me is an act of worship. We need to realize if done in the right means and motives as acts of worship then these things are as important as prayer and worship and devotions. God gave us amazing bodies that need good food, rest, sleep, exercise, and fun. Let us honor our Creator with our bodies by caring for this wonderful vessel that we call home here on earth.
Prayer: Lord, help me to remember that I am fearfully and wonderfully made and help me to respect what you created and honor you by taking care of myself. Help me to be mindful of you every moment of every day so that I can make good choices. You know what I need most, teach me how to care for this gift the best way that I can. Thank you Jesus.