MEMORY VERSE: “ 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.” 1 Timothy 4:8.
BIBLE PASSAGE: Daniel 1:12-15.
INTRODUCTION
While it is good to pay serious attention to critical aspects of our lives like work/career, family, fellowship with God, ministry, we should not neglect our health Acts 27:34; 1 Timothy 5:23. Without knowing it,we put our health at risk, resulting in health problems that could range from minor to chronic or severe.
OUTLINES
- HEALTH IS WEALTH!
- TOP TIPS FOR HEALTHY LIVING
- HEALTH IS WEALTH!
God created us spirit-beings after His own image,yet He gave us physical bodies to interact with this Earth while we live in worship of Him. Genesis 1:26-27; Genesis 2:7; John 4:24. God is very concerned about our physical health Jeremiah 30:17. It is therefore our responsibility as part of our act of gratitude to God to prioritise our health because our bodies are God’s temple Romans 12:1;1 Corinthians 6:19 This physical container of our body enable us as spirit beings to exist and interact wíth the physical world without which we would be unable to fulfil God’s purpose for us Genesis 1:28; 2:7.
Taking care of our bodies is also important because:
1.Good health is God’s will for us Jeremiah 30:17.
2. Without good health, it is impossible to serve God Mark 5:18-20.
3. Being in good health brings glory to God Acts 3:8-10.
4. It increases our productivity in every aspect of our lives Proverbs 31:17.
5. Living healthy increases our self-dignity Daniel 1:12-15
6. It is less expensive than ill- health Mark 5:25-26
7. We need to live healthy to be able to fulfil purpose Philippians 2:25-28.
2. TOP TIPS FOR HEALTHY LIVING
First and foremost, we need to involve God in our desire to be healthy: God will ensure that we are healthy when we obey/fear Him and depart from evil Proverbs 4:20-22; Proverbs 3:7- 8. It is important to renew our mind because negative thoughts and mindset can be detrimental to our mental health Romans 12:2. Practically, we must minimise the intake of sugar and ultra processed food. Eat more of whole grains, fruits and vegetables Genesis 1:29; Daniel 1:8, 12-15. Always stay hydrated, drink water in sufficient quantities especially during the day. Engaging in regular exercise will aid blood circulation in our body 1 Timothy 4:8a. We must ensure that we walk more than sit in one position for long periods at a stretch as this is detrimental to our health. Spending time outdoor and reducing screen time will prevent eye problem and brain malfunction while promoting general health. Be mindful of what you consume Proverbs 23:1-3, 20-21; 1 Corinthians 10:31 steer clear of alcoholic/strong drinks or psychedelic drugs: it damages the organs and the emotional well-being of its victims Proverbs 20:1; 31:6.
CONCLUSION
What we eat or drink is our first medicine. Take good care of yourself.
FURTHER READING
Sun: Jeremiah 30:17.
Mon: Mark 5:18-20.
Tues: Daniel 1:8, 12-15.
Wed: Proverbs 20:1.
Thurs: Acts 3:8-10.
Fri: Proverbs 31:17.
Sat: Proverbs 23:20-21